ShelfLife February issue 2025

A new slice of the action

Serial entrepreneurs Niall McGrath & Tom Gannon discuss their new creation: A game-changing incremental subcategory in pizza

From strength to strength

The sports nutrition category is powering ahead in grocery +

Understanding fixed-term contracts A comprehensive guide

ShelfLife February 2025 Vol. 32 No 2

Editor

DONNA AHERN

donnaahern@mediateam.ie

Sta journalist

SHAUNA BERNARD

shauna.bernard@mediateam.ie

Contributors

CAROLINE REIDY

NIKKI MURRAN

Head of business

IAN MULVANEY (087) 2208486

ian.mulvaney@mediateam.ie

Account manager

MARK MORGAN (086) 8854930

mark.morgan@mediateam.ie

Circulation subs@mediateam.ie

Publisher JOHN McDONALD (01) 294 7744

john.mcdonald@mediateam.ie

Printing

W & G Baird Ltd

ShelfLife is a controlled circulation magazine, available to selected individuals with interests in the retail and wholesale grocery trade, who fall within the publisher’s terms of control. For those outside these terms, annual subscription is €98.00 including postage & packing.

Taken by storm

At the end of January 2025, Ireland was hit by Storm Éowyn, the most intense storm in recent years, with winds reaching over 130 km/h and severe ooding across the country. is powerful storm prompted Ireland’s rst nationwide red weather warning since 2017 and led to a signi cant surge in demand for essential goods.

According to the latest Irish grocery data from Kantar, retailers such as Tesco (increased by 8.9%), Dunnes (by 8.1%), and SuperValu (up by 8.5%) saw substantial growth, outperforming the market, which rose by 6.5% in January. Much like previous storms, including ‘ e Beast from the East,’ shoppers ocked to stores to stock up on necessities, particularly bread and bakery items, as they prepared for the challenging weather.

As grocery retailers, you are well aware of the growing trend of consumers prioritising convenience, reliability, and preparednesshabits that have only intensi ed following the lockdown periods. e demand for long-shelf-life household staples such as canned goods, non-perishables, and other essential items continues to increase, and this trend is not likely to slow down.

Now is the time to ensure that your stores are fully stocked with these critical items. Proactively promoting pantry essentials will help meet the growing needs of shoppers who are preparing for emergencies and uncertain weather conditions. By anticipating these demands and having the right products on hand, you can o er both convenience and peace of mind to your customers.

Let’s work together to provide the support our communities need during these unpredictable times, ensuring that your business remains resilient and responsive to the needs of shoppers facing storms and other disruptions.

Managing director

JOHN McDONALD Sales director

PAUL BYRNE Operations director

BILLY HUGGARD

Published monthly by Mediateam Ltd., 55 Spruce Avenue, Sandyford, Dublin 18. A94 RP22

Telephone (01) 294 7776

Fax (01) 294 7799

ISSN: 1393 0753

Ahern 16 HR: Fixed-term contracts play a vital role in Ireland's employment landscape, o ering exibility for employers and workers alike, writes Caroline Reidy.

22 A new slice of the action: A deep dive into the incremental subcategory revolutionising the pizza industry. Donna Ahern talks to co-founder Niall McGrath of the world’s rst air-fryer pizza brand.

26 Storm Éowyn triggers surge in retail sales as shoppers prepared for disruption. Shauna Bernard reports.

56 Social Diary: Check out who’s been out and about this month.

58 20 Quick Questions: Suzanne O’Connor, account director, e Hive Agency.

14 Recruitment: Nikki Murran reports on the importance of communication, compromise, and clear expectations through the recruitment process.

Donna

NEWSGRID

The top news stories in FMCG and retail from across Ireland

Diageo’s 2025 first half results mark a ‘return to growth’

Diageo’s has reported that its fiscal 2025 first half results marked a return to growth, its latest financial results show.

The Guinness-owner delivered organic net sales growth of 1% ‘despite a challenging industry backdrop as consumers continue to navigate through inflationary pressures’.

Registration now open for London Spirits Competition 2025

The London Spirits Competition 2025 is your chance to showcase your spirits to some of the most influential professionals in the industry

But time is running out – regular registration closes on 28 February 2025, so don’t miss the opportunity to secure your place.

An Post confirmed as Tesco’s Stronger Starts distributor

Tesco Ireland recently announced a new partnership with An Post as the new logistics provider for its Stronger Starts food programme

This new collaboration will see An Post deliver thousands of Tesco Stronger Starts food packs to 240 DEIS primary schools nationwide every week.

Spar and Eurospar launch ‘Breast Before Dates’ campaign

Spar and Eurospar have joined forces with the National Breast Cancer Research Institute to launch a public awareness campaign, Breast Before Dates, to raise awareness about the importance of regular check-ups and self-examination for breast cancer

Every year, around 3,587 women and approximately 30 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland.

Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme hits one billion recycled containers

Re-turn is celebrating the milestone of one billion drinks containers returned by the Irish public.

Christmas grocery sales in Ireland reaches almost €1.4 billion

The 2024 Christmas period marked a historic moment for the Irish grocery sector with record-breaking sales, a resurgence in brand performance, and in-store footfall at its highest levels ever, research shows

According to recent research conducted by Kantar, over the four weeks to 29 December 2024, grocery sales in Ireland reached just under €1.4 billion, underscoring the resilience and evolving dynamics of the market.

Costcutter announces exclusive charity partnership with Vision Ireland for 2025

Costcutter, owned by Barry Group, has announced its exclusive charity partnership with Vision Ireland for 2025.

This marks a significant milestone for both organisations and reflects Barry Group’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as one of the core pillars of its five-year strategy

The one billionth drinks container was returned to Lidl, Kilcarbery, Dublin on Tuesday, 4 February, as daily return numbers continue to grow from thousands in February 2024, to now reaching more than five million a day on several occasions.

Aldi introduces new DRS savings card to boost recycling rewards

Aldi has announced the introduction of a new Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) “Savings Card” which will allow customers to use their DRS vouchers received when they return empty bottles and cans to load funds onto an Aldi Savings Card.

Aldi announced an additional investment in enhancing and expanding the DRS scheme across its 163 stores nationwide

Lidl set to open new store in Enfield

Lidl recently opened its doors to its newest store in Enfield County Meath, taking the retailer’s store count to seven in the county and creating 20 permanent new jobs for the local area.

Gaelic football star Aoibhín Cleary cut the ribbon on the significant new retail development. ■

Fyffes leads with sustainability and innovation for Fruit Logistica 2025

At this year’s Fruit Logistica trade fair in Berlin, Fyffes is focused on its credo of sustainable growth – growing the category together with the retail partners, growing the product range with innovative, consumer-tested concepts, and strengthening partnerships with communities and suppliers.

With a strong commitment to sustainability, Fyffes continues to enable more people to access healthy foods while working closely with partners to reduce food waste.

The long-standing dedication to the well-being of the communities where Fyffes harvest fresh produce – both from an environmental and human rights perspective – remains central to its vision of Shaping Wellbeing for the World.

“We look forward to meeting with customers

and demonstrating how we can support them in achieving their ambitious sustainability goals –whether in greenhouse gas reduction, living wage commitments, human rights, or community initiatives,” said Frank Burkhardt, chief commercial officer, Fyffes.

Together with retail partners, Fyffes continues to drive category growth, increasing shopper engagement through innovative products and initiatives.

Alongside the well-established Fyffes brand, particularly in the UK and Ireland, it will also be continuing to promote Trudi’s – a purpose-driven consumer brand under the banner ‘Good Fruit Doing Good.’

At Fruit Logistica 2025, Fyffes will showcase Trudi’s, highlighting how the brand is driving

SuperValu & Centra mark 210m container returns in first year of Deposit Return Scheme

SuperValu and Centra are marking 210 million container returns in more than 550 stores nationwide since the launch of the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) 12 months ago – this is equivalent to enabling every citizen in Ireland to recycle 42 containers.

703 Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) have been installed in 560 SuperValu and Centra stores across the 26 counties in Ireland –empowering communities across Ireland to conveniently make returns and move towards more sustainable shopping habits.

Dublin, Cork, Meath, Galway and Kildare stores have received the largest volume of returns to Reverse Vending Machines across the SuperValu and Centra store network.

“Over the course of the last 12 months, a remarkable 210 million containers have been returned via our RVM machines which has led to a reduction in litter locally and enabled Ireland’s transition to a circular economy,” said Luke Hanlon, managing director, SuperValu and Centra.

According to Hanlon, this milestone is a testament to SuperValu and Centra customers who have made recycling containers a natural part of their grocery shopping routine

Under the Deposit Return Scheme PET bottles can be recycled up to seven times and aluminum cans have no recycling limit.

The containers are collected from SuperValu and Centra stores at the end of each week and brought to a recycling facility in Limerick. They are then sorted by material and colour, while any waste that enters the system is removed.

SuperValu and Centra invested €28 million in Reverse Vending Machines across their store networks nationwide, as part of their continued focus to build more sustainable communities.

According to SuperValu and Centra, consumer behaviour indicates strong adoption of the scheme with Saturdays being the busiest period for recycling in SuperValu stores due to customers doing their ‘big shop’, with consumers bringing higher volume of returns at once, averaging 23 containers per visit.

category value while strengthening female empowerment and supporting farming communities.

As climate change continues to impact growing conditions at the source, operational excellence is more critical than ever to ensure a stable and resilient supply chain.

Goodfella’s becomes an official partner of the Irish Women’s Rugby Team

Goodfella’s has announced its new partnership with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) as an Official Sponsor of the Irish Women’s Rugby Team.

This alliance marks Goodfella’s’ first major sporting partnership and comes at an exciting time for Irish Rugby as they celebrate the 150th anniversary and gear up for a high-profile tournament agenda in 2025.

Starting January 2025, the Goodfella’s sponsorship will focus on promoting values of unity, camaraderie, and the joy of sharing great moments with friends and family The brand aims to highlight its commitment to supporting Irish culture; helping raise the profile of women’s sport and celebrating the success and potential of the Irish women’s rugby programme

John McCarthy, country manager Birds Eye Ireland (of which Goodfella’s is a part of) said, “Women’s rugby in Ireland has been growing at an incredible pace, and there’s never been a more exciting time to be involved. Goodfella’s believes that rugby, like pizza, is all about sharing, enjoyment, and celebrating moments with others, bringing people together over great food and good times.

The Irish Women’s Rugby team embodies dedication, teamwork and resilience and we’re incredibly excited to support them on their journey and to be part of their story.”

The announcement comes at a time of significant transformation for Goodfella’s, which has recently undergone a major brand redesign, with fresh new packaging, a renewed commitment to quality and nutrition, and bold plans for 2025. As part of the new partnership, Goodfellas will provide supporters and fans with exciting opportunities to engage with the Irish Women’s Rugby team in the lead-up and during the Guinness Women’s Six Nations and tournaments throughout 2025.

General manager Glenn Leacy and Susan Leahy at Collins’ SuperValu Carrigaline (Pic Diane Cusack)

Irish Women’s Rugby Team

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Petmania launches operation

TransPAWmation in support of pet wellness

Petmania Ireland’s leading pet care specialist, has officially launched the ninth annual Operation TransPAWmation campaign, designed to empower pet owners nationwide to provide the best possible care for their beloved pets.

This year’s initiative runs throughout February and March and promises to be the most comprehensive yet, offering pet owners free access to personalised pet care advice, helping them identify small changes that can have a big impact on their pet’s health and wellbeing.

The campaign was unveiled on 6 February at the Dot Theatre with an engaging panel discussion hosted by Dublin City FM’s Stephen Daly Panelists included veterinary expert Bobby Ortiz, Petmania’s operations manager, Antoinette Long, Petmania’s grooming specialist Tara Murphy, and Damien Hanley, from Agria Pet Insurance, delivering actionable insights to an

enthusiastic audience of pet owners and media attendees.

This year’s campaign focuses on five key areas of everyday pet wellness: optimum nutrition, treating with function, everyday health care, grooming and exercise & play.

Petmania’s pet care experts are available at stores nationwide to assist pet owners with each of these issues, as well as providing weight and Body Condition Score checks for dogs and cats, and walk-in microchipping events throughout February and March.

“As pet owners, we all want to give our pets the best possible life. Operation TransPAWmation is an incredible initiative that equips pet owners with practical tools and expert advice to enhance their pets’ overall health and happiness,” said Emily Miller, sales and marketing manager, Petmania.

From refining their diet to better

Donnybrook Fair reveals revamped flagship store on Morehampton Road

Donnybrook Fair, Dublin’s artisan grocery experience, has announced the launch of its revamped flagship store on Morehampton Road.

The new and improved store combines Donnybrook Fair’s famed gourmet food and exceptional offering with an upgraded layout to create a complete foodie destination for their valued customers.

The Morehampton Road building itself has been renovated from top to bottom, providing customers with a superior shopping experience.

This new store layout brings the Donnybrook Fair mission to source and provide the finest quality ingredients for its customers to life, with premium quality and excellence built into every stage of the customer journey.

The new flagship store embodies Donnybrook Fair’s commitment to great taste, seasonal and fresh produce, and locally sourced ingredients.

Each section of the state-of-the-art store provides customers with the very best service and products. Service and superior knowledge is at the heart of what makes Donnybrook Fair so special.

The team of experts, consisting of skilled craft butchers and knowledgeable fishmongers, as well as friendly staff at the coffee and bakery counters, are always available to assist and guide shoppers while they shop and highlight the key offerings.

While the delicatessen offers an irresistible range of handmade sandwiches, mouth-watering 100% Irish free-range rotisserie chicken, and salad bowls, all prepared fresh daily for a fantastic lunch on the go solution.

understanding grooming or exercise needs, this campaign empowers pet owners to make meaningful changes that benefit their furry companions.

Petmania has announced a new partnership with Agria Pet Insurance for 2025.

Choco-impact brand Tony’s Chocolonely makes record progress fighting inequality in cocoa

Tony’s Chocolonely, impact-driven chocolate company known for bold flavours, vibrant packaging and “unequally divided” bars, recently revealed it has made record progress in its mission to improve the global cocoa industry with the publication of its Annual Fair Report.

Despite the challenging context of rising cocoa prices, the company’s commitment to transparency, fair sourcing, and improving the lives of cocoa farmers is making great strides. Tony’s Chocolonely Annual Fair Report highlights an impressive 71% Y-O-Y growth in cocoa bean volume, which directly results in tangible impact across its supply chain. The report shows a continuous reduction in child labour cases at its long-term partner cooperatives, with rates now standing at less than 4%, ten times better than the industry average of 47%.

Report findings coincide with ‘Fairbruary’, Fairtrade Ireland’s rally cry to Irish consumers to buy Fairtrade for the month of February Tony’s Chocolonely has proudly held the Fairtrade certification in Ireland since 2019 But Tony’s doesn’t stop there, it has developed its 5 Sourcing Principles, namely; traceability, higher prices, longterm commitments, strong farmer partnerships, and enhanced quality and productivity

The report reveals that 20,296 farmers across Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire are now receiving living income pricing for all cocoa sold through Tony’s Open Chain, a 14.4% increase on the previous year Tony’s Open Chain is a collaborative sourcing initiative designed to protect farmers which is guided by the 5 Sourcing Principles... Now, that’s real impact!

Tony’s Chocolonely has diverse and tasty chocolate treats, delivering indulgence with impact, with beloved colourful Bars (RRP €4.50) and snackable and shareable Littl’ Bits (RRP €3.49). Irish shoppers can find Tony’s stocked in Tesco, Supervalu and Centra plus smaller independent retailers ensuring they never have to compromise on ethics when purchasing a delicious chocolate treat.

To read the full report visit www.tonyschocolonely.com ■

Cutting the ribbon at the Donnybrook Fair, Morehampton Road

Indy and Ian Mulvaney at Petmania

CSNA NEWS

The €1,800 state sponsored rip-off

Unless you’ve been hibernating, by now you are aware that as a parting shot to hard-pressed essential community-oriented retailers, the (now private citizen) Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly signed a Statutory Instrument on 17 December that set the initial and subsequent annual fees for a tobacco products retailers licence at an unprecedented €1,000, with a separate fee for those selling nicotine – inhaling products (NIPs) of €800 for the initial application and each year after

We know that, judging from the calls to our offices, from speaking with retail members and with the CSNA National Executive, there is an awful lot of anger and dismay that the licence fees have been set at a level designed to punish retailers for selling a legal product, clearly with the intention of getting some retailers to cease selling tobacco and NIPs altogether

Breaking news!

EM News have confirmed to CSNA that, following a review of carriage charges they have agreed with our request that there should not be an increase to the level of charges applied.

Accordingly retailers across the Republic will not experience any changes to the CSC currently levied.

The association appreciates this very positive decision by the Dublin management to give weight to the voice of the association.

There are a number of further issues regarding deposits and delivery routes that should be resolved presently, we will keep all members appraised.

You need to make your feelings known to your TD

We don’t need lectures about the harm that tobacco causes, we run legitimate businesses catering to consumer demand.

We ensure our staff are trained and we fulfil our legal obligations as legitimate business owners when selling age restricted products!

We pay our taxes, employ tens of thousands of people, provide extraordinary service every day within our communities and respect the laws of the land. This action by the Minister will not change the smoking habits of one single citizen, it is designed to ward off any pub or hotel from providing tobacco products to their clientele in addition to making little or no financial return on investment for numerous small rural shops and those serving low density populations, particularly those that do not, or cannot have a direct trading account with the manufacturer or distributor

We are experiencing unprecedented additional costs to our businesses; energy, labour, insurance premiums, wholesale prices for commodities and fuel continue to have a negative effect on our profitability, not to mention the cost-of-living crisis our customers are experiencing. It is

simply outrageous that in what was almost his last action as a Minister, Stephen Donnelly has signed an Order that shows absolutely no regard for us.

A tobacco retailers’ licence, identifying the necessary details of the applicant could have been administered through Revenuethey are already in full control of all tobacco retailers’ details through the Track and Trace regime, one of the most comprehensive data gathering exercise carried out across the EU and UK in recent years. They are also the lead agency for administering a whole range of excise licences and most tobacco retailers are already “on their books” as excise licence holders, whether it be for Alcohol (Beer, Wine, Spirits) or Fuel.

Instead, we will get the HSE setting up an entirely new system running parallel to that of Revenuesurely as taxpayers we have every right to object to this waste of our

Government formation

CSNA are happy to note that Minister Peter Burke has retained his position as Minister for Enterprise and we look forward to continuing our good working relationship with him.

We also note the presence of a

money? The Environmental Health Service, who are delegated to ensure compliance with the various obligations created in the Tobacco Control laws are already making visits to our premises for food safety, Alcohol compliance and existing Tobacco and NIP control measures so it is very difficult to suggest that the setting of a €1800 fee is proportionate to the additional work involved in enforcing compliance.

Preventing a business from carrying out a legal service and making it more difficult for a business to continue to serve their community should be a concern to your elected representative.

Make your views known today, don’t wait for others.

Tell them, in your own words, exactly how this rip-off will hurt your business and tell them you expect them to raise the matter at Party level.

Do not wait any longer: Act now!

new Minister for Health (Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill) and new Minister for Justice (Minister Jim O’Callaghan). These Departments are important for retailers, as much legislation concerning our businesses emanates from them.

CSNA NEWS

CSNA NEWS

CSNA NEWS

GUS O’HARA National President, CSNA

What makes Nearby unique?

Independent Focus: We empower independent retailers, providing the support and expertise they need to succeed and grow. We don’t ask for long-term contracts and monthly fees; we do the opposite. We provide the on the ground support including access to our award-winning Marketing team to drive footfall and awareness to your store.

Community-Centric: Our stores are at the heart of their communities and the Nearby brand supports the retailer on this journey Our strapline of never too far from home strikes a chord with both the

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Programme for Government provides hope for retailers experiencing crime

The programme for Government agreed during the week made specific reference to the need to protect retailers and their staff from an increase in crimes in their stores. A grant system for anti-theft and prevention measures will be rolled out as will a specific offence of assault of retail workers.

The programme highlights the need for an improvement in data sharing between retailers and Gardaí and will also seek community sanctions for retail crime There will also be an emphasis upon providing ASBOS (anti-social behaviour orders) and ASBW (anti-social behaviour warnings) and opening up of night courts in addition to dispersal orders and public space protection

orders. Retailers will be able to apply for exclusions against known criminals from entering their premises.

The programme has also given a firm commitment to tackle the practice of retail defamation and has agreed to reintroduce the amendments to the Defamation Act to cover this.

CSNA are very happy that the vast majority of our campaign to highlight retail crime has borne fruit as evidenced with these specific commitments. As you can no doubt understand, the association will continue to press Department of Justice and An Garda Siochana until we are satisfied with these matters being delivered. ■

‘They don’t make them like they used to’

Nikki Murran reports on the importance of communication, compromise, and clear expectations through the recruitment process

“They don’t make them like they used to”is a phrase I’ve heard repeatedly over the past few weeks while running a project for a new store opening. Our client needed to hire a batch of sales assistants eager to work and learn, though with little experience However, after a month of effort and hiring only one out of the twenty staff needed, she called me in, exasperated and seeking help

She couldn’t figure out what had gone wrong, so I reviewed the recruitment drive before starting a new one for her.After going through all the applications and her interview notes, it became clear that she was looking for something that simply didn’t exist: an army of her younger self. She envisioned 20 staff members who would take every hour offered, work at 100% effort from sunrise to sunset regardless of culture or leadership style, seek no progression or feedback, and feel grateful for the opportunity to“earn their stripes.”

On the other hand, the candidates were looking for managers who would motivate, inspire, and mentor them. They wanted working hours that fit around their lives, the right to disconnect after their shifts and above-average pay. So, who is right?

Evolving attitudes

Here’s the thing: not only has the job market changed, but attitudes have also evolved. There’s no absolute right or wrong here. Both employers and employees are entitled to define their own wants and needs.What ensures a successful recruitment drive is communication, compromise and clear expectations. Once these

“weekend work”and assume it means every single weekend, which leads them to self-select out of the process.When candidates learn they can trade a full weekend for the next one off, or that working a Saturday guarantees a Sunday off, they’re often happy to compromise.

are established, everything else becomes easier

In today’s market, particularly with younger candidates, there’s a prevailing rhetoric that a job is just that: a job. The“above and beyond” mentality is often perceived as a ploy to extract extra unpaid work Conversely, many retailers I’ve worked with see this“above and beyond”—staying 10 extra minutes after a shift, working through a busy weekend, or the understanding that we can’t discuss progression opportunities until the store’s stock take gets finished—as a sign of genuine interest in making retail their career

This mismatch between expectations can lead to frustration on both sides. Employers may interpret employees’reluctance to go the extra mile as a lack of commitment, while employees may feel undervalued or exploited when they’re asked to do more than what’s in their job description The reality, though, is that none of these perceptions are the main issue. It’s all about communication and ensuring that both sides are clear and honest about expectations.

Weekend work

As the middleman in the recruitment process, I interpret for both sides. For example, when a retailer says they want someone willing to work weekends, I clarify: do they mean every weekend? Both days? Usually, the answer is no. They’re simply looking for someone open to some weekend shifts and a level of flexibility—a team player On the flip side, candidates often hear

It’s not that either side is unreasonable—it’s that they’re often speaking past each other. Issues arise when both candidates and clients speak in absolutes, looking for extremes If either side insists on rigid terms for one factor, they need to show flexibility on others. For example, if someone wants a job with no weekend shifts, or if a store wants staff willing to work every weekend, then compromises on pay or other benefits are usually necessary As I said, it’s all about compromise and communication.

Work-life balance

This isn’t just about retail, either The broader labour market is undergoing a cultural shift. Employees are increasingly prioritising work-life balance, mental health, and fair compensation. They’re more likely to seek workplaces where their values align with the company’s culture and leadership style. Employers, meanwhile, often yearn for the“good old days”when staff were seemingly more willing to adapt to business needs without question. What’s important to remember is that compromise doesn’t mean settling. It means finding a balance where both parties feel their needs are being met. Retailers who embrace flexibility often find that their employees are more loyal and

engaged, while job seekers who are open to negotiation can land roles that better align with their priorities

So, what do I recommend?

The first step for all parties is to rank your needs and wants. Identify what’s most important to you in a job or in a potential employee. Go down the list and distinguish between your absolute must-haves and the areas where you’re more flexible. This applies to hours, pay, responsibilities, and even long-term goals.

This approach provides a clear starting point for negotiations. By being upfront about what’s nonnegotiable and what’s open to discussion, both parties can quickly determine if they’re a good match.

On appeal

For employers, it’s also helpful to showcase what makes your company an appealing place to work. Highlight mentorship opportunities, career development paths, or any perks you offer that could make the role stand out. For candidates, being transparent about your expectations and showing a willingness to learn can go a long way. With clear communication, upfront expectations, and a reasonable dose of compromise, I’ve managed to find perfect matches for countless clients. It’s a win-win for everyone involved!

At the end of the day, the job market will continue to evolve. Success lies in recognising these changes and adapting accordingly. Whether you’re an employer or a job seeker, remember it’s not about recreating the past—it’s about building a future where both sides can thrive ■

NIKKI MURRAN Director, Grocery Retail Recruitment, Excel Recruitment www.excelrecruitment.com

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Understanding fixed-term contracts: A comprehensive guide

Fixed-term contracts play a vital role in Ireland’s employment landscape, offering flexibility for employers and workers alike, writes Caroline Reidy

However, navigating the intricacies of fixed-term contracts requires a clear understanding of the legal framework, rights, and obligations tied to them. This article delves into the nuances of fixed-term contracts under the Protection of Employees (Fixed Term Work) Act 2003.

What Is a fixed-term worker?

A fixed-term employee is someone who:

• Is employed under a contract which contains a specific start and end date or

• Who is employed to carry out a specific task or project or

• The continuity of whose contract is contingent on a particular event such as the availability of continued funding from an external source

Purpose and scope of the legislation

The Protection of Employees (Fixed Term Work) Act 2003 seeks to ensure fixed-term workers are not treated less favourably than permanent staff. It also aims to prevent misuse of successive fixedterm contracts. However, the act excludes certain groups:

• Agency workers placed by temporary work agencies.

• Agency workers directly employed by agencies.

• Apprentices and trainees

• Individuals on publicly funded

employment schemes, like Community Employment

When are fixed-term contracts used?

Employers may offer fixed-term contracts in specific scenarios:

• Absence cover: For employees on maternity leave, adoptive leave, or long-term sick leave.

• Project-based roles: For tasks with defined timelines

• Seasonal demand: During busy periods like summer or Christmas.

Fixed term contracts should not be used as a trial period for an individual to perform a role, if the role is permanently needed, a permanent contract should be given with a six-month probation period

Equal treatment for fixed-term employees

Fixed-term employees must enjoy the same rights as permanent staff, including:

• Annual leave entitlements.

• Access to family leave.

• Provision of wage slips etc. Discrimination against fixed-term workers can result in legal consequences. Employers must ensure parity in treatment to avoid disputes

How long can employers hire an employee on a fixed-term contract?

Employers can renew fixed-term contracts, but the cumulative duration cannot exceed four years unless objectively justified. Upon reaching this limit, the worker must be offered a contract of indefinite duration

Handling the expiry of fixed-term contracts

Clear communication is crucial when a fixed-term contract approaches its end:

• A written statement should outline the reasons for nonrenewal.

• Adequate notice must be provided in line with the Minimum Notice and Terms of Employment Acts 1973–2005

Failure to follow these steps can inadvertently create a permanent employment relationship

Renewal obligations

• Employers must meet with the employee before the contract’s expiration and confirm the end date

Section 8 of the Act mandates that employers provide written reasons for renewing a fixed-term contract and justify not offering a permanent contract. This communication should follow the minimum notice periods

Continuous service and employment rights

The Unfair Dismissals Act includes provisions to prevent employers from avoiding employee protections by stringing together temporary contracts. If a fixedterm worker is rehired within three months of their contract’s expiration for a similar role, the individual is deemed to have continuous service.

Addressing poor performance during fixed-term contracts

The length of probation must be relevant to the length of the contract and should include formal meetings. Addressing performance issues outside this process risks legal exposure. For instance:

• Non-renewal due to poor performance, without documented probation steps, may be construed as unfair dismissal.

• Ending a fixed-term contract for reasons unrelated to its initial purpose can create challenges, especially if a replacement is hired.

Employers are encouraged to initiate probation processes promptly when issues arise, ensuring transparency and legal compliance

Vacancy notifications

Section 10 of the Act obliges employers to inform fixed-term

workers of permanent vacancies, giving them equal opportunities to secure long-term positions.

Redundancy and fixed-term workers

Fixed-term employees are entitled to redundancy payments if they’ve completed 104 weeks of continuous service.

Avoiding unfair dismissals

Another misconception is that employees on probation lack dismissal protections. Even without the one-year service requirement under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977–2007, employees can contest dismissals under Industrial Relations legislation, which does not mandate a minimum service period

Best practices for employers

• Track fixed-term contracts: Maintain a robust tracking system, like an Excel spreadsheet, to monitor contract durations and prevent inadvertent violations.

• Clarify probation terms: Define and implement probation periods

• Provide notice and documentation: Ensure timely meetings, written notices, and adherence to legislative requirements when ending or renewing contracts.

• Consult experts: Seek HR

“The length of probation must be relevant to the length of the contract and should include formal

guidance to navigate complex scenarios and avoid potential disputes.

Conclusion

Fixed-term contracts offer essential flexibility for employers while safeguarding employee rights under the Protection of Employees (Fixed Term Work) Act 2003. By understanding the legislation and adhering to best practices, employers can foster a compliant and equitable workplace. Employees, in turn, can benefit

from transparent terms and fair treatment, ensuring that fixedterm arrangements serve their intended purpose without unnecessary complications. If you are an organisation based in the Republic of Ireland and require further information or advice relating to HR, please do not hesitate to contact our office on (066)7102887 or email us at info@thehrsuite. com. For more information visit https://thehrsuite.com or read our blog. ■

Grocery/Convenience sector continues to perform strongly. Retailers navigating an uncertain economic environment linked to geo-political events, access to personnel and fluctuating consumer sentiment.

Retail Convenience: 2024 Review

Summary

• Robust performance: Robust performance delivered by the sector in 2024. A shift in consumer behaviour to increased frequency patterns coupled with increased engagement with own-brand range.

• Cost of Business: Store owners continue to address their overhead profile proactively to mitigate increases linked to personnel and supply-chain.

• Consolidation: Increased consolidation has become a feature of the market with larger grocery/fuel operators expanding their store network and diversifying their sales mix.

2024 Key Trends

• Strong performance in take-home grocery sales continued. Irish grocery inflation stood at 3.6% in November/December 2024 representing a normalisation of food prices in the market. The ever-increasing emphasis on “events” across the sector was further underlined with sales of €1.4bn across Christmas 2024 representing the largest 4-week period since pre-COVID lockdown rush in March 2020.1

• As consumers seek cheaper alternatives across some product lines, all leading operators recognise that a strong own-brand offering is now critical to maintain customer engagement.

• Dunnes Stores and Tesco continue to vie for the number 1 position in respect of grocery market share This has been driven by a particularly strong performance by Dunnes in the wider Dublin region whilst Tesco’s increased market share reflects Joyce group integration/increased level of new store openings in recent times

• The large supermarket operators have been proactive in addressing cost of living concerns with targeted ad campaigns and voucher offers being strongly promoted.

• Margin growth and preservation have become an imperative for retailers linked to an increased cost framework driven by personnel, insurance and energy overheads.

The number of new stores opened by Tesco Ireland in 2024.2 11

900m

bn 9

Number of bottles / cans returned via Deposit return scheme between launch on 1st February and 31st December 2024.3

Turnover threshold exceeded by Musgrave Group for first time.4

Number of forecourt / convenience stores acquired by Circle K from the Pelco group (subject to CCP approval).5

Key Activity in the Sector in 2024

• Shopping patterns reflected cost of living concerns with increased frequency (shopping little & often) becoming a feature of the market. As expected, food inflation, linked to a significant decline in international food commodity prices in recent months retracted significantly in 2024.

Approval

• The maintenance of lower inflation levels given sustained geo-political and climate related issues will be monitored with interest in 2025.

• Retailers are continuing to implement pragmatic succession planning structures to ensure that appropriate long-term value is delivered from their business. Future options in respect of both ownership and operational models are being examined in detail.

• Recent studies across Europe have demonstrated that saving money on food remains a top priority across all income groups. This has led to increased engagement with own brand products and a discernible improvement in own-brand range/ options across the sector. The proactive delivery of premium, healthy and sustainable products across the own-brand range will be required to meet customer expectations and preserve retailer margins.

• Increased levels of crime/shop-lifting etc have been reported across the sector leading to the development of Stop Crime against Retailers (“SCAR”) a joint initiative by Shelflife magazine and the CSNA in November.7

Sector Developments: Investment & Economic

• A significant level of new store openings/extensive store revamps occurred in 2024 across all regions supporting job creation and the wider Irish business eco-system. This reflects both the competitive nature, robust financial health and positive outlook of the leading brands in respect of the Irish market.

Owen Clifford e: owen.clifford@boi.com

• The increased cost and regulatory burden presented by the proposed living wage structure, pension autoenrolment and insurance in a competitive environment has led to an up weighted focus on margin development/ preservation from retailers, wholesalers, and their advisors. Recruitment and retention of personnel in a “full employment” environment continues to be a key challenge for the sector.

• Consolidation and cross-sectoral partnerships remain a feature of the wider Irish grocery/convenience/forecourt market. Tesco adding 11 new stores to their network, Maxol trialing Dunnes stores products in-store and Circle K purchasing 9 forecourt convenience stores from Pelco just a flavour of transactions/activity in the market. Individual store sale activity increased significantly linked to succession planning, landlord de-leveraging and independent retailers expanding their store portfolios.

• The de-carbonisation of end-to-end operations remains a key focus for leading operators linked to supplier, Government and consumer expectations/requirements. Multi-million-euro investments linked to improving energy efficiency profile across the fleet, logistics and store network was a feature of sector announcements/ strategies in 2024. The requirements of international suppliers seeking to reduce their scope 3 emission profile under new Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (“CSRD”) legislation will continue to act as a driver/ incentive in the green transition of the Irish grocery/ convenience sector.

Market activity focused on store investment and consolidation to continue within the sector. Margin preservation and environmentally friendly/carbon reduction initiatives to retain a key focus for 2025.

Retail Convenience: 2025 Outlook

2025 Key Numbers

€1bn

€200m

€13.50

40%

5-year investment level earmarked by Applegreen commencing in 2025.8

Proposed level of investment from Lidl in new distribution centre in Cork 9

Minimum wage in Ireland per Budget 2025 equating to c30% increase in 5 years.10

Percentage of group gross margin now delivered by non-fuel sales per Maxol – demonstrating evolution of the business.11

2025 Retail Convenience Outlook

• Robust Outlook: A sector resilient to economic/geo-political shocks; Robust sales performance to continue but increased focus on margin preservation and cost management required to maintain profitability levels/leeway for investment.

• Funding Activity: Strong active pipeline of store purchase and associated revamp proposals - retailers recognise that customer experience/excellent standards will be key to attract and retain market share.

• ESG Investment: Increased investment in environmentally focused store network, waste management, circular operational framework and fleet fuel consumption to support targeted reduction in carbon emissions from the sector.

Market

• In a competitive labour market – sourcing and retaining the best people is vital to sustain a retail business. A structured employee development plan that incorporates role variety, up-skill opportunities and competitive remuneration needs to be embedded within the culture of the business. The smart use of digital/automation tools can deliver the dual goal of increased efficiency and an improved working environment. Retailers familiarising themselves with generative artificial intelligence (“AI”) capabilities in this regard.

• Significant revamp programme will continue to be rolled out in 2025 nationwide by leading grocery operators as the ever more discerning consumer seeks excellence in store standards. Movement on revamp costs linked to fluctuating materials supply base to be monitored closely. Detailed analysis pre and post revamp will be an imperative to ensure that a maximum return on investment is delivered via sales mix improvement, margin growth and cost saving.

• Consolidation and inter-brand partnerships will continue to emerge across the sector with activity levels particularly focused upon the road-side retail/forecourt sub-sector. This reflects the evolution/transformation of same to a more comprehensive food/convenience driven proposition

• Conventional wisdom would dictate that the requirements of middle-income consumers (“the squeezed middle”), navigating an increased cost of living, would be heavily weighted towards a discount proposition. The reality based on both the Irish and European experience reflects a more polarised/nuanced approach with these consumers still seeking premium brands/products at intervals throughout the year. This behaviour is intrinsically linked – consumers seeking to “treat themselves” after a sustained period of repressed/managed spending. Independent retailers adopting a “middle of the road” proposition therefore need to assess the viability of same in a polarised marketplace that is expected to continue.

• As consumers seek cheaper alternatives across some product lines, all leading operators recognise that a strong, diversified own-brand offering will be critical to maintain customer engagement as the inflationary cycle continues. However, own-brand is not all about price/ value – the development of premium, proprietary in-house food solutions can provide a strong margin-generating differentiation point for retailers when delivered effectively.

• In Ireland, the number of people aged over 65 has doubled in the last twenty years from c400k to c800k in 2023 equating to c15% of the population. This statistic is expected to rise towards c1.5 million by 2050. At a European level, the “silver economy” is set to represent more than 35% of spending consumption by 2030. Given this exponential growth, meeting the needs of our senior shoppers should be a key focus area for all Irish retailers

ESG

•Irish retailers are cognisant that a robust strategy for the de-carbonisation of their business model is required to meet Government, investor and consumer expectations/ requirements into the future. Corporate social responsibility linked to sustainable and environmentally friendly in-store activities will therefore be a key area of focus for all retailers –energy efficient equipment, elimination of single-use plastic, improved recycling facilities and reduction of food waste. This will enable an improved cost base whilst meeting consumer expectations in respect of ethical trading.

•Whilst feedback on the Irish deposit return scheme (launched on 1st February 2024) was initially mixed – engagement from consumers has improved month on month. Returns totaling 900 million were recorded by 31st December per Re-Turn Ireland.12

•Studies have identified that c90% of all emissions related to Retail are Scope 3 – linked to suppliers/consumers as opposed to direct emissions from the business itself/purchased energy (Scope 1 and 2). To move the dial on Scope 3, retailers are starting to establish joint initiatives and incentivisation plans with their suppliers to support improved emission targets and the sharing of related data. In respect of consumer engagement – apps/tools that support customers to set and monitor climate targets for their shopping baskets are also on the horizon.

A new slice of the action

We’re on this kind of wave, which has taken off, and we’re the first in the world to do it!

A deep dive into the incremental subcategory revolutionising the pizza industry. Donna Ahern talks to co-founder Niall McGrath of the world’s first air-fryer pizza brand

New brand Slicey is the first pizza in the world that has been specifically created to cook perfectly in an air-fryer. Slicey pizza slices are available in three delicious flavours: The classic Margherita,Pepperoni and a spicy Diavola. Each slice is made from all natural ingredients,containing up to 15g of protein at just 440 kcals.

The sourdough base is double fermented at two different temperatures to ensure the texture cooks evenly to deliver absolute perfection in every bite,while the pizza is conveniently shaped to slot into an air-fryer basket.

This means consumers can simply pop their preferred flavour into the airfryer and enjoy restaurant quality pizza in just eight minutes.

The demand for a healthier and more convenient pizza slice solution has proven to be spot on Since launching Slicey four months ago,the sales and growth performance of the world’s first air-fryer pizza brand has already surpassed the expectations of business partners and serial entrepenures Niall McGrath andTom Gannon.

Speaking with ShelfLife,McGrath highlighted that in terms of sales growth,Slicey has already hit double its target,and the brand is 100% above where the brand’s plan was to be after four months.

“I think we’ve got a really good offering,which is hitting at the right time We’re on this kind of wave,which has taken off,and we’re the first in the world to do it

“Because our product is prepared differently,most frozen pizzas are cooked to 70% and ours are cooked to 80%.The taste and texture are made for the air-fryer,”he explains.

“The word of mouth has been amazing,and some of our social media has already organically,hit almost a million views on individual posts and the comments underneath,you can see people debating,air-fryer pizza,is that going to be good? Oh yeah,it’s amazing So,it seems to have hit on the zeitgeist,”McGrath adds.

New category customers

Recent research conducted through dunnhumby shows that 70% of the revenue generated is incremental to the

Niall McGrath, co-founder, Slicey

category,bringing in new money.This means that seven out of every €10 added to the till would not have been spent before Slicey entered the market.Of this,40% comes from existing category buyers purchasing more for different occasions,while 30% comes from entirely new consumers entering the category

The research also indicates that Slicey is attracting a more affluent demographic,with many new customers previously opting for fresh pizzas or not purchasing frozen pizzas at all. Despite this,the brand is effectively resonating across all demographics.

“We are seeing our volume come from areas like noodles or chicken nuggets that have been put in the air fryer.Other kind of snacking in between snacks,like a snack you have in between college and going to the gym,or in between school and going to football,or whatever it might be on the weekends,or students coming back after a night out,and instead of buying a takeaway,they’re just throwing a Slicey in and having that late at night as a snack,”McGrath highlighted.

“So,yeah,it’s really exciting,because from a retailer’s point of view,it’s new money to the category,and we’ve seen one of the major retailers that they’re seeing growth for the first time in 14 months in the growth of this category.”

The inspiration

About eight years ago,McGrath was with his son at a restaurant and drew a cartoon character of a pizza,like a cartoonist,and named it Slicey Inspired by this,McGrath and his business partnerTom decided to explore the snacking pizza category but struggled to find a solution for a snack.

McGrath noted that in his experience people were expressing a desire for a snack that could be ready in under 10 minutes.However,the challenge was that it was impossible to create a quality pizza with the right texture and taste in that time frame.The oven required 12 minutes to heat up, followed by another 12-14 minutes to cook even a slice of pizza.Additionally,some people admitted they wouldn’t even turn on their oven for a slice.The alternative,the microwave, was not a viable option either,as it ruined the texture.

“So then two years ago,I was on holiday,and we had bought pizza the night before we went to reheat it,and we tried the oven,and it was kind of drying out,”McGrath recalled.“And then we tried the frying pan,and that was cooking underneath,but the top wasn’t cooked,and it wasn’t reheated.And then we tried the air fryer,which was kind of as good as it was out of the pizza oven,which tasted fresh like the night before

“So then,we embarked on a journey to create a pizza with the perfect shape and depth,specifically designed for the air fryer,”he added.

“So that it was finished to perfection of an air fryer in under 10 minutes,because that was the problem we were trying to solve.So that would be the journey of the inspiration,but the air fryer basically unlocked technologically the problem we identified eight years earlier.”

Roman roots

Slicey pizza slice was developed in the hills outside of Rome, with painstaking care taken to ensure the pizzas live up to the stellar reputation of Italian cuisine.Slicey prides itself on its exceptional,restaurant-standard quality of Sicilian-style stone baked pizzas,cooked to perfection in your air-fryer.

McGrath shared that he invested a lot of time in creating the perfect authentic recipe,and to achieve this,a tasting test was essential.

The team travelled across Europe to understand customer preferences,including a trip to Italy-the home of pizza-

specifically to Sicily and Rome,where they tried what felt like a billion pizzas.

The shape of Slicey is perfectly suited for the bestselling air fryer,the Ninja 300,as it fits the tray exactly.The depth is specifically developed to be midway between a Neapolitan and a Roman pizza,ensuring that both the top and bottom cook simultaneously If the pizza is too thick,like a Roman pizza,the dough won’t cook properly while the bottom becomes overdone

On the other hand,if it’s too thin,the bottom may burn before the top is cooked Slicey strikes the perfect balance, with just the right balance offering a crisp edge with a slightly softer center

This led to the creation of a handmade Italian sourdough pizza,offering that perfect combination of a bit of crispiness and a bit of softness,“similar to what you would find coming out of a wood-fired oven in downtown Rome.”

Irish consumers

McGrath and Gannon visited Bambino,a popular pizza slice shop in Dublin,which kept coming up as a recommended spot for Ireland-based pizza-loving consumers.

“We said,right,what’s their formula,and how is that presented?”he explained

Allied to this in terms of favours one of the pizza restaurants in Ballsbridge shared with McGrath and Gannon is that its bestselling pizza among teenage boys in the area was the Diavola,as they were looking for something more adventurous than the typical margherita or pepperoni After introducing it,the Diavola has quickly become one of the top sellers,with like-for-like sales nearly matching the margherita This clearly shows a growing trend for more adventurous flavours.

Value and growth

The key benefits for retailers in stocking Slicey include significant value and volume growth,as the brand offers a unique product that caters to consumer demand for quick, high-quality snack options.By adding Slicey to their range, retailers can tap into a growing market,increase their sales, and attract customers looking for a convenient yet satisfying snack alternative.This combination of quality and convenience positions Slicey as a strong addition to retail offerings,driving both repeat purchases and overall growth.

“So,our original concept was that we wanted to bring incremental volume and value to retailers,because otherwise

they wouldn’t be interested in swapping out one brand for another brand.And our vision was to create a whole new subcategory of snacking pizza.And we did research with UCD that in advance showcase the opportunity that consumers are saying yes,they’d buy this,”he explained

“There were current consumers on top of what they were buying already in frozen pizza,or with a lot of people who didn’t buy frozen pizza,who said they would buy this pizza, have tried it and haven’t heard about it,because it was just simple and it was high quality,cooked quickly,convenience wise,they could cook it,the kids could cook it,and it was a very good quality,much better than what they were expecting from frozen pizza in general.”

Looking ahead

Slicey is already in the throes of international expansion as the brand is already in the process of shipping orders to the UK

The brand has plans in place to enter a further five retailers in quarter three,with discussions underway to enter three more retailers in the fourth quarter of 2025.

“The goal is to be in most major retailers by quarter this year,”McGrath concludes. ■

Serial entrepreneurs Tom Gannon and Niall McGrath, co-founders, Slicey

(L-R) Pepperoni, Margherita and Diavola Slicey Air-Fryer Pizzas

Looking backon 2024

month,we gathered over600 retailers and colleagues in Killarneyforthe 2025 Centra Conference.

The event highlightedthe Centra brand’s successes in 2024 and setthe stagefor ambitious plans in 2025 and beyond.With a steadfast commitmentto becoming aworld-classfood and beverage brand, Centra continuesto inspire and innovate inthe industry

Wewerethrilledto host a numberof esteemed guest speakerswho provided invaluable insights and knowledge sharing.

John Ross,CEO ofIGA,a global alliance of independent retailers,shared his perspective on Centrafrom awiderglobal context and commended Centrafordelivering atruly world-class convenience experience.We were also delightedtowelcome Nicholas Santonastasso,an internationallyrenowned bodybuilder,fitness model,and motivational speaker Bornwith Hanhart syndrome,Nick is atrue inspiration.He spoke passionatelyabout the powerofmindset,taking responsibility, and controllingthe controllables,leaving a lasting impact on all attendees.

Wewere pleasedtowelcome Ian Coughlan as the newchairofthe Centra council.Inthis role, hewillwork alongside and collaboratewith Centra andthe council retailerteamto shape thefuture directionforthe brand.

OurStores

In 2024,we celebrated a majormilestonewith the opening ofeight newstores,bringingthe total numberofCentra stores in Irelandto 500,furthercementingthe brand’s position as Ireland’s leading convenience retailer

Alongsidethese newopenings,Centra also invested in and completed 40 store revamps including Centra Leap Co.Cork,Centra Buttevant Co.Cork,Centra Salthill Co.Galway These revamps have enhanced sustainability measures,expanded product offerings,and elevatedthe overall shopping experience.

The success and dedication ofourretailers wasfurtherrecognised atthe Pride of CentraAwards,held in November2024, where Garvey’s Centra,Newcastlewest, Co.Limerickwas crowned National Centra

LiveEveryDay

Store oftheYear2024.Garvey’s alsotook homethetitle ofStore oftheYearinthe Hi-Convenience category.Otherwinners includedJordan’s Centra,CaraghVillage in Co. KildareforConvenience Store oftheYear,and Cosgrove’s Centra Maugheraboy,Co.Sligofor Neighborhood Store oftheYear

LocalCommunities

Centra is deeplycommittedtothe communitieswe serve.Thisyear,we’ve strengthened ourlocal engagement,from supporting charitiesto partneringwith sports clubs including ourcontinued sponsorship of the GAASeniorHurling Championship.

We were delighted to welcome GAApresident Jarlath Burns to the 2025 Centra Conference, marking ourlong-standing partnership with the GAA. Centra and the GAAare two iconic Irish institutions which are very much centred around community We lookforward to continuing ourworktogetherin the years ahead.

Last

Cormac Dawson,Centra Sales Director; Luke Hanlon,Centra Managing Director; Ian Coughlan,Centra Council Chair

Frankand Honest Iced Coffee

Sustainability

Sustainabilityremains a keypriorityforCentra. Bycommittingto achieve Net Zero carbon emissions by2040 and ensuringthat 100% ofits Own Brand packaging is recyclable, reusable,orcompostable by2025,Centra is making significant strides in sustainability The introduction ofcompostable bags, energy-efficient LED lighting,green refrigerationwith doors,and solarpanels in stores are just afewexamples ofthe initiatives that have alreadyreduced carbon emissions by 30% in 2024.

FoodLeadership

Asthe needs and expectations ofCentra customers continueto evolve,sotoo must our product offerings.Ourpriorityhas beento ensure ourcustomers continueto have access to high-quality,convenient products at goodvalue.

In 2024,Centra acquired Clean Cut Meals, integratingthe Irish brand into ourstore network.Clean Cut Meals is knownforits nutritious,high-qualitymeals,cateringto customers seeking healthieroptions.The addition ofthe Clean Cut Meals range has furtherstrengthened ourconvenient healthy meal offering,inwhat is nowone ofthe fastest-growing market segments.

Frankand Honest had anotherrecord-breaking yearin 2024,selling 26 million cups oftea and coffee.The addition oficed coffee and oat milk options contributedtothe overall success of the brand.

Beyondthis,Centra has also expanded its rangewith newofferings like Centra Protein Yoghurts andthe newest Deli addition -the Centra Egg Muffin,both ofwhich have been a huge hit across stores.Aswell as new products and ranges comingtothefore, Centra also offers a diverse brand portfolio, including Donnybrook Fair,The HappyPear, Moo’d Ice-Cream,and Caramico,delivering a range ofconvenientfood experiences.

Centra’s leadership infood and beverage conveniencewas evident in a record-breaking yearforawards,winning atotal of106 in 2024. Astandout achievementwasthe Great TasteAwards,where Centra Own Brand won 52 awards.

Lookingforward

Overthe pastfiveyears,Centra has made significant strides,working closelywith our ITand Operationsteamsto enhancethe customershopping experiencewhile ensuring ourbusiness operates as efficientlyas possible. Aswe look aheadto 2030,we recognise that staying ahead ofthe curve requires

Guest speaker NickSantonastaso spoke aboutthe powerofmindset, taking responsibility, and controllingthe controllables.

a bold shift in pace and a clearvisionfor transformation.It’s not just about keeping up, it’s about continuouslyreinventing ourofferings to stayahead ofthe market and redefining what’s possible in oursector

Centra retailer,AlanJordan - an inspiring leaderknownforhis resilience and his remarkable abilityto build powerfulteamswithinthe community

Moreto come in the next edition of ShelfLife

Paul Rodgers; Luke Hanlon,Managing DirectorCentra;Jarlath Burns,President ofthe GAA; MarkRodgers,Claire SeniorHurler;Trish &GerRodgers,Rodgers Centra Scarriff

Centra Drumcondra -the newflagship store owned byRetailers Paul and Ger Thornton.

Hotfromthe Deli

Storm Éowyn triggers surge in retail sales as shoppers prepared for disruption

With the arrival of Storm Éowyn in late January, retailers saw a significant increase in sales as consumers prepared for the storm, leading to strong growth for major grocery chains, Shauna Bernard reports

At the end of January 2025, Ireland was hit by Storm Éowyn, the most intense storm in recent years. The storm, which swept through Ireland on 24 January, prompted the first nationwide red weather warning since 2017 It left a path of destruction, with winds reaching more than 130 km/h and severe flooding across the country

Thousands of homes and businesses were damaged, and many areas were left without electricity for days Nearly three weeks later, some parts of the country remain without power as efforts to restore services continue

As Storm Éowyn made its way across the country, many consumers took proactive steps to prepare for the expected chaos. Retailers saw a marked increase in foot traffic as shoppers stocked up on essentials.

This surge in demand was reflected in the latest Irish grocery data from Kantar, which showed that Tesco (+8.9%), Dunnes (+8.1%), and SuperValu (+8.5%) outperformed the total market, which saw a rise of +6.5% in January, as shoppers focused on securing necessities ahead of the storm.

New records

Over the last 12 weeks, Dunnes holds a new record 25% market share, with a sales growth of 7% year-on-year

Shoppers increased the number of trips while picking up more packs per trip, which contributed a combined €39.2 million to their overall performance.

Tesco holds 24.1% of the market, with value growth of 6.5% year-on-year Shoppers

increased their trips to the store alongside welcoming new shoppers, which contributed a combined €21 million to overall performance.

SuperValu holds 20.3% of the market with growth of 4.2%. Consumers made the most shopping trips to this grocer, averaging 23.8 trips over the latest 12 weeks.

This increase in the number of shopping trips contributed an additional €40 million to its performance and strengthened results at the start of 2025.

Lidl holds a 12.4% share of total spending up 4.7%. Increased trips to store and new shopper arrivals drove an additional €8.7 million in sales.

Aldi holds 10.7% market share up 4.5% versus last year with an increase in trips contributing an additional €13.3 million to its performance.

Take-home sales

With the increase in take-home sales at 6.5%, the latest data from Kantar highlighted that this growth occurred despite grocery price inflation rising by 3.4% compared to last year

January also saw shoppers returning to store more often, making on average 23 trips to store but picking up less volume per trip, which was down 1.6% versus last year

“Supermarkets were rolling out discounts in the New Year, as a way of easing the pressure on household budgets – and Irish consumers were more than happy to take advantage of them,” according to Emer Healy, business development director, Kantar

“Spending on promotion rose by 8.4% with shoppers spending an additional €72 million versus last year This is the highest level of

sales on promotion we’ve seen since February 2021.”

Alongside promotions Irish shoppers turned to own label products to help keep costs down in January

Sales of own label products jumped 6.9% compared to last year with an additional €103.9 million being spent on these ranges. Overall own label holds 44% value market share. Brands also saw growth this year, albeit behind the total market at 5.3% compared to last year

A dry start to the year

Shoppers focused as much on health and wellness as on their wallets with an additional €8.9 million spent on fresh fruit and vegetables combined. January also saw a boost in healthcare, up 8.6%. compared to the same period last year

Emer Healy adds: “Dry January was in full swing this year with 6.2% of all Irish households purchasing non-alcoholic drinks in January Sales of low and no-alcohol soared by over 47% with shoppers spending an additional €620k during the month versus last year

“However, not everyone took part in Dry January this year as shoppers also spend an additional €7 million on Beer & Cider.”

Online sales rose by 14.5% year-on-year, with shoppers spending an additional €27.4 million through this channel.

Within the latest 12-week period, the number of online shopping trips increased by 11.7%, while new shopper recruits arrived online with more than 19% of Irish households purchasing online ■

Chill factor

When shoppers look for healthy, convenient, and affordable meal options, the frozen food aisle is often the first stop According to a recent Kantar report, the frozen category is one of the strongest performers in grocery with a 10.4% increase in value year-over-year, even as volume saw a slight decline of 1.8%. Private label products are driving this growth, now holding a 52.8% market share compared to 47.2% for branded products. Frozen foods offer a practical solution for today’s shoppers, combining long shelf life with quality at the right price. As food waste continues to be a major concern and household budgets remain tight, frozen products play a key role in helping

Snack, crackle & vibes

McCain is redefining the snacking category with the introduction of Vibes, an innovative hot snack that combines the crispy texture of crisps with the fluffy centre of chips.

Offering a premium alternative to traditional cold snacks like crisps, nuts, and olives, Vibes is designed to elevate social occasions and deliver a memorable, shareable experience.

With private label products driving growth in this fastevolving category, frozen foods are proving to be a smart buy in a time of rising costs and increasing food waste concerns. Shauna Bernard reports

consumers reduce waste and save money.

Retailers understand that frozen foods aren’t typically impulse buys, so it’s crucial to strike the right balance between affordability and premium choices.

Leading frozen food brands are rising to the challenge by delivering freshness, flavor, and

Crafted to complement any gathering, Vibes provides a multi-textured bite that pairs a golden, crispy exterior with a light, fluffy centre. Perfect for informal settings such as game nights, social catch-ups, or family movie evenings, Vibes offers a convenient solution for hosts aiming to impress without the effort of extensive preparation.

Vibes are designed with ease of preparation in mind, cooking in just 10 minutes in an air fryer or 20 minutes in the oven. This convenience allows hosts to serve a hot, delicious snack while focusing on their guests. Available in two distinct flavours - Salt & Vinegar for a classic tangy profile and Firecracker Chilli for a bold, spicy kick - Vibes is well-positioned to appeal to a wide range of consumer preferences.

Currently available in select retailers such as Dunnes, with wider distribution in SuperValu and Tesco from March, McCain Vibes represents a significant step forward in the hot snacking segment. By blending exceptional

great value Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a healthy snack, frozen foods offer a convenient solution that doesn’t sacrifice quality In a time when every penny counts, frozen food remains a reliable choice for consumers looking to make the most of their grocery budget.

taste with ease of preparation, McCain continues to deliver products that enhance social moments and set a new standard in snacking innovation.

McCain Salt & Vinegar Vibes

McCain Firecracker Chilli Vibes

CATEGORY FOCUS Frozen Foods

Melted goodness

In 2024, Glenhaven made waves in the retail market with the launch of its new snacking range – 100% Irish cheese bites. Packaged in a convenient 200g box, these cheese bites are crafted from the finest Irish cheese

The range includes four mouthwatering flavours: Chilli, Pizza, Nacho, and Crispy Donut. The Chilli Cheese Bite even earned a prestigious Silver Award at the Blas na hÉireann Awards in 2024 highlighting its exceptional quality

The ongoing popularity of hot snacking, fakeaways and party food has made Glenhaven’s cheese bites a perfect choice for consumers. Ready in minutes from the air fryer, these cheese bites are the ideal choice for any occasion, whether it’s a quick indulgence, fakeaway inspired side

Simply fresh

As families settle into new routines for the new year, Green Isle has launched three delicious and convenient vegetable sides, perfect for taking the stress out of mealtimes. With these new additions, Green Isle is helping busy Irish families to save time, while serving up nutritious delicious meals that everyone will love

A recent survey of family meal habits carried out by Green Isle has revealed some fascinating insights into the everyday challenges and preferences of home cooks nationwide The survey has shown that while the majority of families (73%) cook meals from scratch at home four or more times a week, time pressure remains a significant barrier to preparing family meals more often. Over half (57%) of people cited lack of time as the main obstacle, with nearly half (49%) admitting that finding meal inspiration and catering to fussy eaters also pose challenges. Despite these hurdles, 96% of participants said they would cook more often if meal prep time could be halved, highlighting the growing demand for quicker, more convenient cooking solutions.

Green Isle has three new delicious vegetable sides to choose from Ready Roasted

dish or appetiser or indeed as part of a party platter

With its convenience and flavour, they’re an easy purchase for busy households and snack lovers alike. And their handy 200g size and attractive RRP make them a great upsell and impulse purchase for retailers hoping to increase average basket spend.

Emma Cahill, brand director, Glenhaven, said: “We see coated Irish cheese as a very natural growth area for Glenhaven, and we’re delighted with the quality of what we’ve produced. In fact, we believe our range of cheese bites are quite possibly the best cheese bites available in the frozen aisle today.”

Glenhaven continues to set the bar for premium, innovative snacking.

Vegetables with Lightly Seasoned Potato, Penne Pasta and Vegetables with a Light Italian-Style Seasoning and Ready Chargrilled Vegetables with Lightly Seasoned Potato

• Ready Roasted Vegetables with Lightly Seasoned Potato

This tasty combination includes roasted broccoli, peppers, onions, courgette, and potato, making it an easy way to create a satisfying midweek dinner With no prep required, it’s ready in just 7-10 minutes, perfect in the air fryer and ideal for those looking to serve up a nutritious family meal in no time

• Penne Pasta and Vegetables with a Light Italian-Style Seasoning

Combining carrot, sweetcorn, broccoli, peppers, and penne pasta with a light Italian-style seasoning, this pasta and vegetable option is easy to prepare and so convenient. Ideal for all the family and fussy eaters. Simply pan fry for 7-10 minutes and enjoy.

• Ready Chargrilled Vegetables with Lightly Seasoned Potato

A delicious combination of chargrilled courgette, aubergine, peppers and potato seasoned to perfection. Ideal to add to your favorite pasta dish, soup or any evening meal. Simply pan fry for 7-10 minutes or perfect in the air fryer

Derval O’Rourke, ambassador, Green Isle, said: “As a busy mum, I always choose Green Isle Their fruit and vegetables are picked at their peak and frozen at their freshest, locking in nutrition. I need good food that’s quick, and with Green Isle, goodness has never been so handy.”

Mairéad Walsh, marketing manager, Green Isle’s, said: “We know how hectic family life can be, and we’re delighted to offer new solutions that take the stress out of mealtimes. Responding to consumer feedback, we have been working hard to perfect our new range of vegetable sides which are all about saving time without compromising on flavour or nutrition. With no chopping, peeling, or slicing needed, parents can feel proud serving up delicious, wholesome meals that the whole family will enjoy.”

Green Isle’s new range is now available in freezer aisles of supermarkets nationwide, retailing at €4.00 per pack.

Green Isle Ready Chargrilled Vegetables

Green Isle Ready Roasted Vegetables

Green Isle Penne Pasta and Vegetables

Sustainable seafood

Donegal Catch, Ireland’s number one frozen fish brand for almost 40 years, is encouraging Irish households to choose from its extensive range this National Fish Week (3 - 9 March) and throughout the year

The team at Donegal Catch are always bringing new ideas to the market and its recent launches included a delicious range of fishcakes, fish nuggets and a breaded hake family size pack.

The range of fishcakes is designed with busy professionals, couples and families in mind and is sure to elevate any meal occasion at home With two portions per pack, they are perfect as a starter, part of a lunch spread, or a quick midweek evening meal. Parents are always looking for fun and creative ways to encourage their kids to eat more fish and Donegal Catch is delighted to introduce new golden, crunchy and tasty fish nuggets. Busy families are under increasing financial pressure

and time constraints but want to continue to ensure their kids eat well and Donegal Catch offers the quality assurance parents need with products that kids will love

Donegal Catch also introduced a new Irish Breaded Hake Family Pack. The hake fillets are made with 100% Irish hake and responsibly caught in Irish waters.

All these products are produced in Ireland, come in fully recyclable packaging and can be cooked in the air fryer or oven.

Donegal Catch is the largest purchaser of white fish from the Irish catching sector and processes over 30% of Irish landed haddock and whiting. Donegal Catch recognises the role we play in the sustainable development of the Irish fishing industry, protecting our waters, and positively impacting our communities for generations to come

Donegal Catch will be running a TV advert featuring fisherman Frank McClenaghan from Greencastle in Co Donegal explaining why fishing is important for local communities and the role sustainability plays in the Irish fishing industry The TV advert will be on air from Monday, 10 February for three weeks as part of the National Fish Week campaign.

Donegal Catch has numerous tasty and quick ideas for new recipes, along with top tips on how best to get more fish into your diet. More details can be found at www.donegalcatch.ie

Donegal Catch hake fishcakes

32 CATEGORY FOCUS Frozen Foods

Strong performers

WheyHey, the Irish founded healthy frozen food brand, is predicting transformative growth in the Irish frozen food category in 2025 driven by new innovation and consumer campaigns showcasing the benefits & quality of frozen food.

The WheyHey brand exploded onto the Irish market in 2024 with a range of 14 sku’s launching in Tesco stores nationwide, supported by an award winning in-store customer campaign.

The brand has quickly become the #1 brand in the growing high protein frozen spacewith a range of ready meals, pizzas, burritos, pancakes and ice cream, driving + 15% customer spend and increasing category shoppers by 6% across retail partners.

With growing demand for the full award winning WheyHey range, the brand is making it easier than ever for retailer partners to win in the category - investing in WheyHey branded freezers to help retailers create a WheyHey destination in store for shoppers.

The WheyHey freezer programme launches in Ireland in April.

Tasteful health

Unislim celebrate crafting great tasting, healthy, delicious food for everyone Discover Unislim’s relaunched range of delicious, nutritious frozen foods. Even better value for your shoppers. Unislim Crispy Skinny Chips 800g, Unislim Rustic Oven Chips 800g, and Unislim Sweet Potato Fries 450g –offer a healthier alternative.

With fresh new vibrant packaging and a strong brand reputation, these products will generate profits for your business. These products are vegan-friendly, gluten-free, low in saturated fats, contain no artificial colours, preservatives or flavourings and have been approved by Ireland’s top dieticians.

Unislim’s Frozen Ready Meal ranges

Unislim’s Frozen Ready Meal range is made from ‘Fresh’ ingredients then frozen, nothing added. Made up of four mouth-watering, flavour-filled, delicious recipes, Green Thai Chicken Curry, Mango Chicken Curry, Spicy Chickpea Curry & the newest addition, Chicken Tikka Masala. High in protein but low in calories & fat. It makes mealtimes quick & convenient because sometimes consumers need good food fast

Its range is promoted through an integrated approach, utilising in store promotions, above and below the-line marketing, with Unislim’s dedicated social media platforms amplifying

its brand message and connecting with shoppers.

Unislim is a family run, Irish owned company. Its goal is to offer healthy, delicious, wholesome & great-tasting options for vegans and health-conscious foodies. It is Ireland’s leading slimming & healthy lifestyle club since 1972 Unislim offers its loyal members a personalised and effective weight loss plan, which encourages them to make healthier food choices. With a network of 240+ supportive weekly classes all across Ireland or Unislim online there is a class near your store. unislim.com for more information

Tenders takeoff

Vista Foods Ltd has announced the appointment of Christine Farrell as the new head of retail sales for the Chicken with Attitude brand.

With extensive experience in the F.M.C.G

sector Farrell brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role and will oversee and lead the retail sales division.

Commenting on her new role with Vista Foods, Farrell, said: “I am incredibly excited to

Christine Farrell, head of retail sales, Chicken with Attitude

Foods CATEGORY

You will never find a re-formed, chopped and shaped product carrying the brand name Chicken with Attitude launched the range to satisfy the need for a premium quality chicken within the retail sector

Introducing the world’s first air-fryer pizza slice

Enjoy a handmade slice of Sicily in minutes with Slicey

Slicey, the world’s first air fryer pizza slice, is changing the snacking game Bringing the delicious taste of Sicily to your home, Slicey is designed especially for air fryers, offering perfect pizza in just minutes.

join Vista Foods as head of retail sales and to become part of a dynamic, passionate and >> innovative team. I’m eager to continue the growth and success of the Chicken with Attitude brand over the coming years.”

The Chicken with Attitude brand launched in late 2020 and has seen phenomenal growth within the Irish Market to date Through its high-quality products and unique coatings and flavours, it certainly became the favourite retail chicken choice for the Irish consumer

Chicken with Attitude Brand Chicken with Attitude brand has five products within the range: Golden Tenders, Hot & Spicy Tenders, Southern fried Tenders, Dippers and Popcorn.

All of its products are made from hand cut whole chicken fillets, covered in delicious bespoke coatings.

With a double-fermented base, Slicey ensures an even cook and perfect texture every time The slices are shaped to fit seamlessly into an air-flyer basket, eliminating the need for preheating and long waits. In just 8 minutes, you can enjoy restaurant-quality pizza without the hassle of using an oven.

These Sicilian-style, stone-baked pizzas are handmade in Italy with natural ingredients and are available in three flavors: classic Margherita, Pepperoni, and spicy Diavola. Each slice delivers up to 15g of protein and only 440 kcals.

Slicey is perfect for teenagers after school, kids between activities on the weekends, students between lectures and busy workfrom-home lunches.

Available now in select retailers nationwide, Slicey is set to become your new favorite snack. Don’t miss out - grab yours today!

RRP: €3.

Join the Conversation.

Visit www.sliceypizza.com

IG: @sliceypizza TT: @sliceypizza Hashtag: #SliceyPizza ■

A slice of Pepperoni Slicey cooking in an air-fryer

Chicken with Attitude Crispy Golden Tenders

Crackin’ good treats

With Easter sales soaring and exciting new products hitting shelves, it’s time for retailers to make the most of the season, writes Shauna Bernard

Easter is big business, and this year, the numbers speak for themselves. According to recent Kantar research, seasonal confectionery sales hit a record-breaking €23.9 million in 2024, with chocolate Easter egg sales soaring 22% higher than last year

Promotions played a key role in driving this growth, with more than 43% of Easter egg purchases made on deal, proving that shoppers are eager for value alongside their holiday treats.

Beyond the chocolate aisle, traditional Easter favorites also saw a boost. Hot cross bun sales rose by 7.7%, surpassing €1 million, as consumers embraced this classic staple for their seasonal celebrations. Meanwhile, online shopping continues to reshape retail, with digital sales surging by an impressive 19.5%, adding an extra €33 million to overall spending.

shoppers choosing to fill their Easter baskets with a click.

As retailers and brands navigate a competitive landscape, these figures highlight the power of strategic promotions and

evolving shopping habits. With almost a quarter (24.9%) of total sales happening on promotion, discounting remains a key tool to attract and retain customers. At the same time, the growth in online spending signals a shift in consumer convenience, with more

This exciting Easter portfolio will be supported by a comprehensive marketing campaign, ensuring maximum visibility and engagement with consumers. Lindt’s campaign includes a strong presence across TV, online video, and outdoor advertising, alongside captivating in- store displays to drive impulse purchases with its new 360-degree campaign “Make Easter Sparkle”.

A fresh look

This Easter, Lindt’s beloved Lindor Shell Eggs range has received a vibrant new look, perfectly designed to capture the attention of

Golden delight

The iconic Lindt Gold Bunny is back, ready to charm families once again this Easter. Available in different sizes; 50g, 100g and 200g, as well as different flavours including milk, white, dark and salted caramel so you have the perfect gift for all the family

Renowned for delivering premium chocolate experiences, Lindt continues to push boundaries with innovative offerings that delight consumers and drive excitement in the Easter chocolate market.

From leveraging promotions to enhancing digital experiences, understanding these trends is crucial for staying ahead in an increasingly dynamic market.

shoppers. The updated packaging displays elegance while embracing Lindt’s signature premium visual, ensuring it stands out on the shelves.

With a variety of indulgent flavours, including best sellers Milk, Assorted, and new Dark Mint, the Lindor Shell Eggs range offers something for everyone, making it a musthave for Easter gifting or self-treating. The new design highlights the irresistible smooth Lindt chocolate and creamy filling that Lindor is celebrated for, reinforcing its position as a top choice for Irish shoppers during the festive season.

Lindt Gold Bunny

Lindt’s Lindor Shell Eggs selection

Lindt Gold Bunny Shell Egg Salted Caramel

Lindt has announced its latest innovation: the Lindt Gold Bunny Shell Egg 195g Salted Caramel. Combining the iconic Gold Bunny charm with the on-trend salted caramel flavour, this new product is a showstopper for Easter 2025.

Crafted by the Lindt Master Chocolatiers, the shell egg is made with the finest milk

Eggstra special

Shoppers can really indulge their loved ones this Easter with Lily O’Brien’s range of luxurious hand-crafted Easter Eggs, the perfect gift to celebrate with family and friends. Made with love in Ireland using Lily O’Brien’s signature chocolate recipe, this delicious range is sure to meet shoppers’ Easter gifting and treating needs.

This year Lily O’Brien’s popular Easter range has not only seen a creative facelift, but its continued search for improving sustainability Every luxury egg it creates delivers happiness and quality for its consumers, along with reduced packaging waste.

Lily O’Brien has announced this year, all of its eggs have no plastic aperture or cavity, meaning the outer box is now 100% recyclable Now, that is something Lily O’Brien’s is eggcited about sharing with retailers and consumers alike.

With Cocoa prices set to soar even higher this year, Lily O’Brien’s know consumers will need to ‘shell’ out a little more, but it doesn’t want to compromise on its packaging or product offering. With the demand for its luxury products increasing, Lily O’Brien won’t lose sight of meeting that luxury gifting need.

Pouch egg range

Engage your shoppers on a journey of discovery with Lily O’Brien’s three pouch eggs. You can choose from - Crispy Hearts, Sticky Toffee and Mallow & Cookies. Each delicious Milk chocolate egg comes complete with individually wrapped chocolates for an extra touch of indulgence.

chocolate, filled with a touch of salted caramel for a perfectly balanced taste experience. Available nationwide, this latest addition complements the already iconic Gold Bunny range, which continues to be a firm favourite with Irish families. The Salted Caramel Shell Egg promises to be a standout gift option, offering an indulging experience that reflects Lindt’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship

Truffles eggs

Truffle fans rejoice as Lily O’Brien’s has created the ultimate treat this Easter season with two Truffles Easter Eggs. Salted Caramel and Milk Chocolate Truffles Egg. Each large Milk Chocolate Egg is accompanied by signature Lily O’Brien’s twist wrapped truffles. O’ooh so delicious and the perfect gift for all the truffles lovers out there.

Large luxury eggs

Luxurious and moreish, Lily O’Briens new and improved Large Easter eggs include the decadently delicious Desserts Collection Egg, along with the signature Lily O’Brien’s Sticky Toffee and Honeycomb Crispy Hearts. Each deliciously hand-crafted milk chocolate egg is complimented with a generous selection of mouth-wateringly delicious chocolates, now all that is left is to enjoy.

Easter gift bag

For a gift to really impress this year, Lily O’Brien’s Easter gift bag is the perfect choice. Packed with luxury, it features a delicious hand-crafted Lily O’Brien’s Milk Chocolate Egg with honeycomb crispy heart chocolates, the beautifully gift wrapped Ultimate Chocolate Collection and two Lily O’Brien’s share bags tastefully presented in a stylish gift bag. It is the perfect treat to delight every chocolate lover this Eastertime

All Lily O’Brien’s Easter Eggs and boxed chocolates are carefully created and thoughtfully designed in County Kildare and are available to order through Tennant & Ruttle, contact your Sales Representative for more information.

www.lilyobriens.ie

Lily O’Brien’s Crispy Hearts, Mallow & Cookie, Sticky Toffee and Desserts Collection

Lily O’Brien’s Large Crispy Hearts, Sticky Toffee and Desserts Collection Easter eggs

Lily O’Brien’s Salted Caramel Truffle and Milk Chocolate Truffle Eggs

Lily O’Brien’s Easter gift bag

Lindt Gold Bunny Shell Egg

Tasty twist

Shoppers can get their hands on eggcellent new products and popular classics as Nestlé Confectionery brings its 2025 Easter range to shop shelves across Ireland.

New for 2025: KitKat Chunky Chocolate Brownie Crunch Incredible Egg, Milkybar Raspberry Ripple Ice Cream Giant Egg, Aero Melts Neapolitan Ice Cream Giant Egg, KitKat Mini Eggs Sharing Bag and Rowntree’s Jellytastic Mini Egg Bar

Nestlé Confectionery has announced a host of tasty new treats in time for the Easter season.

In the world of KitKat there’s two exciting new products to try The indulgent KitKat Chunky Chocolate Brownie Crunch Incredible Egg is a smooth brownie flavoured milk chocolate shell with crunchy biscuit pieces and comes with two KitKat Chunky Double Chocolate Brownie bars.

The new KitKat Mini Eggs Sharing Bag features individually wrapped chocolate eggs filled with crunchy pieces of signature KitKat wafer, perfect for sharing this spring.

Ice cream fans can look forward to two new offerings The Milkybar Raspberry Ripple Ice Cream Giant Egg is a delicious mix of half white chocolate shell and half raspberry flavour shell and features a Milkybar Raspberry Ripple Sharing Bag, filled with marbled white and pink raspberry flavour pieces.

Aero Melts Neapolitan Ice Cream Giant Egg combines Neapolitan flavours in a strawberry and vanilla flavour milk chocolate egg and comes with an Aero Neapolitan Sharing Bag containing bubbly milk chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla flavour melts.

For those who want the best of both worlds, the Rowntree’s Randoms egg returns. The egg brings together Rowntree’s and Nestlé chocolate to create a shell with marshmallow pieces and Rowntree’s fruity flavoured sweets creating a delicious one-of-a-kind Easter egg. Lucky

recipients of this egg will also receive a sharing bag of Rowntree’s Randoms.

Not missing out on the fun, Rowntree’s has its Jellytastic Mini Egg Bar joining the Easter line up this year The milk chocolate bar is dotted with delicious fruity flavoured jelly pieces mixing up textures and flavours to make an out of the

Egg hunts are still part of the fun at Easter, and Nestlé Confectionery has three brands returning this year The KitKat Easter Egg Hunt pack has eight milk chocolate Easter eggs made with signature KitKat crunchy wafer pieces, ready to be hidden away as part of an Easter Egg hunt activity Smarties and Milkybar also have packs to join in with the fun.

For a premium experience, the After Eight Premium Egg returns, with a rich mint flavoured dark chocolate shell and a pack of signature After Eight mint chocolate thins.

If talk of Easter has given you a spring in your step, there are lots of Easter treats to look out for. The Milkybar Mini Egg Block is back again, with crispy milk chocolate mini-inclusions dotted inside a smooth white chocolate bar Shoppers can expect to see egg offerings from many of the Nestlé Confectionery brands they know and love including KitKat Aero Rowntree’s, Lion, Toffee Crisp, Smarties, Munchies, Rolo, Yorkie and Milkybar

All Nestlé Confectionery chocolate is made using 100% certified Rain Forest Alliance cocoa.

Sweet legacy

Celebrate Easter with Cleeve’s Irish Confectionery, proudly supporting Irish brands and continuing its legacy as Ireland’s longestestablished confectionery brand. Building on last year’s success and Tesco’ support for Irish brands, Ampersand has announced that the expanded and revamped Cleeve’s Easter Egg collection will be stocked in Tesco again this year

Cleeve’s brings the perfect mix of tradition and innovation, showcasing Ireland’s confectionery heritage through premium, locally crafted products. The new Easter egg range highlights Cleeve’s commitment to quality, with a minimum of 30% cocoa solids for an indulgent chocolate experience and packaging that captures the charm of vintage Irish design.

The 2025 Cleeve’s Easter Egg collection offers something special for everyone, blending cherished classics with fun and festive treats, all proudly crafted using Irish milk and Cleeve’s time-honoured recipes. With over 140 years of confectionery heritage Cleeve’s continues to celebrate its rich Irish traditions through every product.

The 2025 lineup includes:

• Classic Irish Milk Chocolate Easter Egg (RRP: ¤7)

A timeless favourite made with rich Irish dairy milk chocolate and paired with indulgent Cleeve’s Chocolate Caramels, embodying the essence of Cleeve’s heritage

• Original Iced Caramels Easter Egg (RRP: ¤7)

A nostalgic delight featuring Cleeve’s iconic Iced Caramels, created using the same beloved recipe and techniques perfected over 90 years.

• Macaroon Irish Milk Chocolate Easter Egg (RRP: ¤7)

A nod to the iconic Macaroon Bar, this egg blends Irish chocolate and coconut for a classic flavour presented in refreshed, modern packaging.

• Popping Candy Milk Chocolate Easter Egg

A playful addition to the range, combining creamy Irish chocolate with a burst of popping candy to add a spark of excitement to Easter celebrations.

Each product celebrates Cleeve’s rich heritage as Ireland’s longest-established confectionery brand, bringing tradition and joy to every Easter treat.

The Cleeve’s range represents more than just confectionery – it’s a tribute to Ireland’s rich history, craftsmanship, and dedication to supporting local brands. Retailers are encouraged to be part of the Cleeve’s story, offering customers a taste of this cherished Irish tradition this Easter.

Easter CATEGORY FOCUS

Why stock Cleeve’s in your store?

Trusted Irish Heritage: As Ireland’s longestrunning confectionery brand, Cleeve’s offers a unique legacy that resonates with Irish consumers.

Supporting Irish Producers: With over 140 years of craftsmanship, Cleeve’s continues to use local ingredients and Irish milk, ensuring quality and sustainability

For more information, visit cleevesirishconfectionery.ie or follow us on Instagram and Facebook. To place an order, contact your Ampersand representative or call the sales line at 01 4130100

Easter elegance

A visit from the Easter Bunny this Easter Sunday would not be complete without a delicious tasting, premium Irish-made chocolate egg from Butlers Chocolates –Ireland’s preferred brand of luxury Irish chocolates (source; Opinions Research 2024). A must-stock premium line this Easter, Butlers seasonal selection has everything you need to make Easter even sweeter for gifting and selftreat.

Butlers Easter range for 2025 includes beautifully designed, Signature Chocolate Easter Eggs with twist-wrapped chocolates in popular varieties of Honeycomb, Salted Caramel and Milk Chocolate

Butlers ever-popular flame wrapped eggs,

classic Boxed Eggs, adorable mini filled eggs and chocolate bunnies also feature in the joyful collection. A gorgeous spring-inspired set of small and large milk chocolate boxed eggs, accompanied by milk chocolate mini bars completes the range

Butlers Chocolates are crafted using only sustainably sourced cocoa and zero palm oil. As part of the company’s continuing sustainability journey, Butlers have moved away from using recyclable plastic to protect Easter eggs, using paper instead.

The ribbons on Butlers Easter Eggs are made from recycled plastic bottles and packaging is fully recyclable Butlers has also recently introduced new recyclable paper on all twist-wrapped chocolates.

For enquiries and to place an order, please email the team at trade@butlers.ie ■

Butlers Milk Chocolate Salt Caramels

Butlers Honeycomb Crisp

Butlers Milk Chocolate Truffles Chocolates

Butlers signature egg range

Gut instinct

As consumers become more mindful of gut health’s impact on overall wellness, the global demand for natural probiotic and digestive products continues to soar

As health-conscious consumers become increasingly aware of the critical role gut health plays in overall well-being, the demand for effective, natural gut products has skyrocketed. A Bord Bia report Gut Health: A Global Desk Research Review written by John Tobin, Bord Bia data and intelligence specialist has highlighted that the global probiotic market is currently valued at $9 billion

A healthy start to your day

Enjoy a healthy start to your day with the number 1 Yogurt brand in Ireland.

The Activia Breakfast range with calcium, fibre and live cultures reaching your gut alive. From the fruit range with carefully selected ingredients to no added sugar and 0% fat there’s an Activia for everyone Activia are passionate about happy guts and how they play a significant role in our bodies. With a

(€8.7 billion) and is projected to reach $12 billion (€11.6 billion) by 2028 (IPA Europe, 2024). Digestive wellness is a key driver, with the market for related products estimated at €10.4 billion in 2023 and growing annually by 13% (Euromonitor, 2024). However, growth rates are expected to vary, with some regions like the UK and Western Europe seeing a slowdown, while Asia Pacific and the Middle East and

unique blend of five ferments, there are billions of live cultures strong enough to survive until they reach your gut. Activia have been doing this for more than 30 years, that’s why Activia keeps on innovating and finding delightful new ways to love your guts. Give your gut a healthy morning.

Activia is a source of calcium & protein. Calcium contributes to the normal function of digestive enzymes and normal energyyielding metabolism. Enjoy as part of a

Africa continue to expand rapidly The research indicates that Dairy, beverages, and supplements present the most growth potential. There’s a trend towards products offering multiple benefits, such as taste, convenience, health, and sustainability Products that can help consumers to see or feel the benefit of consumption are likely to have an improved chance of success (New Nutrition Business, 2023).

balanced diet & lifestyle #1 brand: Nielsen data 29.12.24

Stock up on wellness wins with Yakult

Yakult believe that gut health is a cornerstone of overall health. For retailers, Yakult’s range of fermented milk drinks offers a proven way to meet this growing demand.

Yakult has three variants; all contain >>

(L-R) Walnut & Oats, Cereals and Strawberry, Activia Breakfast four pots range

Gut Health CATEGORY FOCUS

20 billion L. casei Shirota bacteria which increase the bacteria in the gut. * With taste and health continuing to be top priorities for consumers, Yakult ensures both product benefits and delicious flavours are front and centre.

Around the world, more than 40 million Yakult products are consumed every day across 40 countries and regions—a testament to its popularity and trust among consumers. Packaged in fridge-friendly 8 x 65ml bottles with shelf-ready cardboard packaging, Yakult stands out on shelves and offers convenience for both retailers and shoppers.

Yakult Balance

Each bottle of Yakult Balance is rich in vitamin D, to support the immune system and maintain bone and muscle health. ** Like the rest of the Yakult range, it’s fat-free, glutenfree, and vegetarian, appealing to a wide variety of dietary needs.

Yakult Plus Peach

Yakult Plus Peach is rich in vitamin C, *** providing 30% of the EU reference intake and is bursting with a juicy peach flavour Vitamin C supports immunity and helps reduce fatigue It also contains fibre, which feeds the bacteria in the gut.

Yakult Original

Yakult Original is an iconic choice. With its subtle vanilla and lemon flavours, this fermented milk drink contains 20 billion of Yakult’s unique bacteria in each bottle, which are scientifically proven to increase the bacteria in the gut.*

*Yakult’s bacteria, L. casei Shirota, increase the lactobacilli and bifidobacteria in the gut.

**Vitamin C supports the normal functioning of the immune system and contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue Each bottle of Yakult Plus Peach accounts for 30% of the EU reference intake for vitamin C. Enjoy as part of a healthy balanced diet and lifestyle

*** Vitamin D contributes to the normal function of the immune system and the maintenance of normal bone and muscle function. Each bottle of Yakult Balance accounts for 30% of the EU reference intake for vitamin D. Enjoy as part of a healthy balanced diet and lifestyle

A science-driven range of Biomel

Biomel is the UK’s No.1 plant-based gut health brand, its science-driven range of delicious drinks, powders, and prebiotic bars

support immune and digestive health, mental performance, and overall well-being.

Biomel Complete Gut

The most advanced product in its range, Biomel Complete Gut Powder is designed for those seeking an all-in-one gut health support. Combining 25 billion live cultures with 13 unique strains, diverse fibres, an enzyme blend to aid nutrient absorption, and essential vitamins and minerals, this powder is the ultimate solution for improving digestion and supporting overall gut health.

Biomel Gut Health Shots

Its Gut Health Shots are deliciously dairy-free and packed with billions of live cultures, prebiotic fibre, vitamins B6, D and calcium. Biomel believe you shouldn’t have to compromise on taste when supporting your health, which is why its shots are available in a variety of delicious flavours, like Belgian Chocolate, Pure Vanilla, Natural Coconut, and more!

Prebiotic Cereal Bars

Finally, our Prebiotic Cereal Bars contain an impressive 13 grams of fibre, meeting 40% of your recommended daily intake in one serving. Not only do these bars support your gut health, but they’re also vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for enjoying on the go Packed with 100% natural ingredients and plant-based goodness, these bars are a smart snack choice for anyone serious about improving their digestion or for those that just want a healthy snack.

Gut-loving goodness, by Bio&Me

Leading gut health food brand, Bio&Me founded by The Gut Health Doctor Dr Megan Rossi, BSc, PhD RD, is on a mission to make good gut health deliciously easy.

Did you know that 70% of your immune system lies in your gut? Dr Megan’s scientific research shows that people and microbes thrive on variety and deliciously good food. Increasing the amount and diversity of plant-based fibre in your diet is one of the best ways to deliver maximum gut health benefits.

And what better way to tick all the boxes than by choosing one of Bio&Me’s awardwinning ‘Good for Your Gut’ granolas? Offering consumers tangible gut health benefits at an accessible price point, it’ll ensure you can offer your customers the very best from the world of gut health:

Bio&Me’s ‘Good for Your Gut’ Granolas: High in fibre, with no added sugar or nasties, and vegan-friendly too, these flavoursome granolas contain up to 14 plant-based foods to give your biome the diversity it loves to help it thrive. Choose from three great-tasting flavours, each priced at €5.30/360g pack:

Super seedy & nutty: Ideal for crunchy granola lovers, welcome to Bio&Me’s bestseller, brimming with 12 diverse plant-based ingredients.

Low sugar, naturally: With a softer biscuity-crunch, this granola is packed with 14 plantbased foods including wholegrain oats, cashew nuts, walnuts and almonds. The ultimate low sugar granola.

Cocoa & hazelnut: An indulgent chocolatey granola, but with no added sugar Paired with 10 different wholegrains, nuts and seeds, there are 9g of protein per 60g serving too, perfect for staving off hunger pangs.

Find Bio&Me’s ‘Good for Your Gut’ Granolas in Tesco Ireland, Nourish and SuperValu. Contact hello@bioandme.co.uk for further info. ■

(L-R) Yakult Balance, Original and Plus Peach

A collection of Bio&Me Granolas

From strength to strength

The sports nutrition category is powering ahead in grocery – fuelling growth and meeting the demand for healthier, performance - boosting options, Donna Ahern reports

Busy athletes, need more than just motivation when it comes to training. They need the right fuel to be able to perform at their best. Whether they’re hitting the gym or competing. That’s where premium protein and ready-to-drink (RTD) hydration supplements come in. Euromonitor states in a report entitled ‘Sports Nutrition in Ireland’ which was published in October 2024, increasing interest in health, exercise, and image will help drive growth in the category “In the forecast period, sports nutrition in Ireland is set to maintain dynamic retail current value growth, although the rates of increase are expected to slow over the course of the forecast period. Given that increased health consciousness is expected to be a lasting legacy of the pandemic, growing participation in sports and fitness activities amongst the Irish population should continue to boost overall demand,” the analysist suggests.

“While sports protein products are expected to continue to dominate sports nutrition in Ireland, there is a major opportunity to expand into sports non-protein products, which is set to maintain a double-digit retail current value compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in the forecast period. These products aid rapid

recovery after a high intensity workout and are becoming more important for sports enthusiasts,” Euromonitor adds.

It is interesting to note, according to the report sales of sports nutrition via retail e-commerce expanded rapidly in Ireland in the review period, with value sales expected to more than double between 2022 and 2024 alone, to reach 44% of overall sales, therefore overtaking supermarkets to become the largest distribution channel. The boom in retail e-commerce presents a strong opportunity for

sports nutrition brands to reach a wider audience, which is set to drive continued growth for this channel in the forecast period.

Speaking with ShelfLife, Brian Flaherty, owner and head coach, Performance Dynamics highlighted that for athletes on the move sports nutrition products are easy to take, fast to consume, and effective at keeping athletes at their peak, before, during, and after training. “Regular protein intake is essential for recovery between sessions. For busy athletes, convenience is the key,” he notes.

Nutritious and tasty snacks

FulFil, Ireland’s #1 Healthy Bar* is on a mission to fuel life by creating nutritious and tasty snacks. Every FulFil bar satisfies those chocolate cravings while making it possible to hit your protein goals. Consumers don’t have to choose between function and flavour anymore - Fulfil has hit the sweet spot! FulFil is perfectly positioned to cater to Ireland’s growing appetite for functional foods and increasing demand for protein snacks.

Expertly crafted to fuel active lifestyles, with high protein, added vitamins and low sugar it ticks all the boxes. The wide range of flavours ensure there is an offering for everyone Chocolate Salted Caramel, White Chocolate Cookie Dough and Peanut Caramel have become staples among Irish consumers across retailers. Fulfil continues to innovate offering consumers a new bar to sink their teeth into.

Big news for all you coffee lovers! The FulFil Chocolate Cappuccino Protein Bar has landed! Fulfil has created a bar combining moreish chocolate with a smooth cappuccino centre topped with the crunch of cocoa nibs. The perfect match for your mid-morning pick me up! This bar doesn’t scrimp on taste or nutrition with 20g of protein, 1.2g of sugar and nine essential vitamins.

Trying something new ‘never tasted so good!’

*Source: ROI Collated EPOS 1500 stores: 12 Week

ZERO EXCUSES.

Red Bull Zero launches in Ireland

Red Bull is kicking off 2025 with the launch of the new Red Bull Zero With zero calories, zero sugar and its own unique taste, Red Bull Zero provides an exciting new option in the brand’s line of energy drinks.

Red Bull Zero expands choice by offering a no-sugar taste that’s different from Red Bull Sugarfree; a pleasant sourness is combined with tastes of pineapple and vanilla to reveal a sweet and vibrant balance.

Health is now a key concern for shoppers, with consumers on the lookout for healthier options of their favourite soft drinks, and research showing that sugarfree soft drinks are now growing ahead of their full-sugar versions.

Red Bull Zero caters to this need, providing the same wiiings with zero sugar With a distinctive take on the brand’s familiar rhombus design, Red Bull Zero is available in matte-light-blue 250ml cans from February 2025.

Alongside the launch of Red Bull Zero, Red Bull rolled out a free 30-day challenge designed to encourage and motivate individuals to achieve their New Year fitness goals. The “Red Bull Zero Excuses Challenge” features fitness challenges and tips from Red Bull athletes and is available on www.redbull.ie/zeroexcuses.

Founded in 1987, Red Bull established the energy drinks category, promising to vitalize body and mind. Now available in 175 countries worldwide, Red Bull’s expanding range of editions and beyond the ordinary marketing strategy continues to wing its way into Irish consumers’ hearts, minds and shopping baskets.

Giving wings to people and ideas, Red Bull is a proud supporter of Irish athletes including hockey goalkeeper Ayeisha McFerran, surfer Conor Maguire, drifter Conor Shanahan, mountain bikers Greg Callaghan and Ronan Dunne gymnast Rhys McLeneghan and rugby player Mack Hansen.

Zero-calorie, zero-sugar, same wiiings

Convenient and sustainable snacks

Absolute Nutrition continue its mission to help consumers embrace healthier eating habits through simple, convenient and sustainable snack choices.

With an award-winning plant-based range of protein and energy balls, Absolute Nutrition’s snacks offer a ‘better for you’, functional snack that also ticks the satiety box / sweet tooth craving. High in fibre, source of protein, no added sugar and gluten free are some of the USP’s defining the success of Jo’s balls,

making them an ideal snack choice for a number of target markets.

With its manufacturing site in Greenogue Co Dublin, Absolute Nutrition have also earned a reputation as a quality snack food producer and recent investment secures their plan to increase capacity and grow sales in retail and foodservice in 2025.

For more enquiries contact: info@absolutenutrition.ie or visit www.absolutenutrition.ie or @absnutfoods

(L-R) Jo’s Protein Balls, Chia Energy Bombs, RAWLO’S

A selection of Jo’s Balls

Red Bull Zero

Monster Energy growth, now the no. 1 energy brand in ROI

2024 was another record-breaking year for the Monster Energy brand in ROI, reaching no 1 energy value sales with 32%* market share (*Nielsen ROI L13W December 2024). The continued growth is largely thanks to the success of new product innovation, with four new products hitting the Irish shelves in the last six months. Its latest innovation is the vibrant Monster Rio Punch, a totally new taste sensation. A blend of exotic fruit flavors with a hint of spice, that’s fully loaded with our world-famous Monster energy blend.

Monster has continued its growth within

High-protein, fresh milk options

It’s February 2025, the perfect time to capitalise on the surge in fitness and nutrition enthusiasm. After a festive season of indulgence, people are eager to embrace healthier habits and get back on track. This period is ideal for introducing new consumers to the protein category, and Avonmore Protein Milk is the perfect partner for its journey. Avonmore Protein Milk offers a variety of high-protein, fresh milk options to cater to different needs:

• It’s core range provides 27g of protein per 500ml, perfect for routine exercisers.

• The Gold range boasts 33g of protein per 500ml, ideal for those engaging in intense workouts.

• Pro-Oats combines 27g of protein with 23g of gluten-free oats per 500ml, making it the perfect on-the-go drink for morning exercisers.

By stocking Avonmore Protein Milk, you can offer your customers a trusted brand that supports their fitness goals. Speak to your local sales representative to stock our range or add additional SKUs to your weekly order

the Zero Sugar segment with the launch of Ultra Strawberry Dreams – to complement its zero-sugar platform which now includes Ultra White, Ultra Rosa, Ultra Paradise, Ultra Fiesta Mango, Ultra Red, Ultra Peachy Keen as well as Full Throttle Zero Sugar and Green Zero Sugar

The Monster Energy brand’s Full Flavour range has also seen new additions with the introduction of Bad Apple and Reserve Orange Dreamsicle The full flavoured segment now includes Mango Loco, Pipeline Punch, Monarch, Aussie Lemonade, Pacific Punch, The Doctor and Reserve Pineapple

Fuel your mornings with Flahavan’s High Protein Pots and Sachets

Flahavan’s, Ireland’s favourite porridge brand, has expanded its popular High Protein Range with the launch of the High Protein Golden Syrup Porridge Pot and Sachet, responding to the growing demand for nutritious, convenient breakfast options. As part of the High Protein range from the Waterford-based family business, this new addition offers consumers an easy way to boost their protein intake without compromising on taste or quality

Flahavan’s High Protein Porridge Pots and Sachets are made with Flahavan’s locally sourced oats and are available in three tasty flavours:

Golden Syrup, Vanilla, and Plain. With up to 9.5g of protein in the High Protein Porridge Sachets and 8.5g in the Pots, it is also a good source of fibre, making it an ideal choice for

No time for lunch?

those looking to fuel up before or after a workout or anyone simply seeking a nutritious, easy breakfast.

Flahavan’s High Protein Range has experienced exceptional growth since launching, driven by a strong demand among active consumers who are looking for a quick and healthy breakfast that can keep up with their busy lives. Flahavan’s High Protein Porridge Pots are perfect for anyone on the go, offering a ready-to-eat meal in minutes – just add boiling water or pop them in the microwave!

Flahavan’s provides a simple and tasty way to start the day with added health benefits, helping fuel busy mornings and active lifestyles.

Flahavan’s High Protein Pots are now available in all major supermarkets at an RRP of €1.39 per 45g pot, and sachets are at an RRP of €3.99 per box of 6x50g.

See www.flahavans.ie for more information on the range

Meet Ireland’s fastest growing complete nutrition brand* Huel Ready-to-drink is the ultimate time-saving meal for busy days Packed with 20g of plant-based protein, 26 essential vitamins and minerals and low in sugar, it’s ready in seconds - saving you time without compromising nutrition.

Available in five delicious flavours, this grab-and-go meal is shaking up store shelves. With Huel Ready-to-drink already ranked in the Top five brands in the Smart Food category, Hueligans swear by it. Today, Huel is driving the most growth in this category with an additional €661,000 sales.

Huel is a growing movement with a bold mission: ’To make nutritionally complete, convenient, affordable food, with minimal impact on animals and environment.’ And since starting in 2015, Huel has been redefining the future of nutrition at a rapid rate

With over 500 million meals sold worldwide, Huel powers top athletes, innovators, and leaders across the globe And the movement keeps on growing.

Visit @huel on socials or www.eu.huel.com to find out more.

*Huel meals provide the right amount of protein, essential fats, carbohydrates, fibre, vitamins & minerals as part of a balanced diet. Collated EPOS data L52w w/e 29.12.24.

(L-R) Huel Ready-to-drink, Iced Coffee, Chocolate, Banana flavours

Monster Rio Punch

48 CATEGORY FOCUS Sports Nutrition: Protein & Energy

Libert–e – New look packaging 2025

‘First launched in Ireland in 2004, Libert-e Greek recipe has become a household brand and a stable in the strained yogurt category Its thick and creamy consistency with naturally rich protein & its natural variant’s low sugar makes it a ‘go-to’ for consumers who are looking to eat well.

This year, Libertē is renovating the brand to Libertē Greek Recipe - the same great tasting product but with bolder, more eyecatching new packaging which will give it maximum stand out in the Greek category on the chilled aisle

The new Libertē ‘Just Read the Label’ campaign was borne out of the recent surge in consumers seeking out products with clear and easy to understand labelling and ingredient listings. This is an area in which Libertē can stand tall with only milk

What is the answer to your shoppers’ ‘Lunch time dilemma’?

John West starts the year strong with an impactful radio campaign aiming at putting its tasty convenient and naturally high in protein products on the radar of shoppers constantly looking for new options for lunch.

The shoppers will be able to ‘hear the mastermind style’ creative on their radio channels and on selected podcasts.

John West noted that its message is highly relevant at the beginning of the year when everybody is looking to embrace new healthy habits.

The brand highlighted that its products are a great option as each tin of John West Tuna provides 25g protein per 100g.

This is the equivalent amount of protein to four eggs.

As a natural source protein, John West

listed as its key ingredient.

This sets Libertē apart from many other high protein products which contain a huge number of ingredients where as Libertē simply uses milk as the natural source of protein.

Furthermore, Libertē is a strained yogurt meaning that more milk is used in the

products are also a great alternative to cooked ham, as canned Tuna is also considerably lower in salt than a processed meat option (Ham contains approximately three times more salt per 100g than tuna.)

Also, John West is highlighted that it a good source of Natural omega 3.

The brand started to promote its omega 3 range in January and will continue to do so during the month of February with in-store sampling and price promotions on its new Salmon Pot range (available in Sweet Chilli, Lemon and Herb and Brine) and its new Smoked Mackerel range (available in Sunflower Oil and in Brine). It is ‘succulent and shoppers simply love it’.

John West Eat Strong. Go Strong!

Linwoods Chocolate Protein Overnight Oats: The perfect start to your day

Looking for a healthy and convenient breakfast that tastes as indulgent as it is nutritious? Linwoods Chocolate Protein Overnight Oats are the perfect solution.

Available in 300g and 1kg packs, this delicious blend of oats, chia seeds, and plant-based protein is infused with an indulgent chocolate flavour, making it a satisfying way to kick-start your day.

Packed with natural goodness, each serving of Chocolate Protein Overnight Oats contains 11g of protein (before adding your choice of milk), making it an ideal option for those looking to boost their protein intake. These oats are also a source of fibre, magnesium, and omega-3, providing sustained energy to help keep you going throughout the day.

Perfect for meal prepping or busy mornings, Linwoods Chocolate Protein Overnight Oats are simple to prepare—just add milk, stir, and let it chill overnight for a quick, nutritious breakfast.

At just €4.99 for a 300g pack, Linwoods Chocolate Protein Overnight Oats offer a delicious, affordable, and easy breakfast solution for those seeking a nutritious way to fuel their mornings.

production to achieve its thicker consistency resulting in more natural protein.

The new Libertē packaging is expected to hit the shelves at the end of February with a full Out of Home (OOH) advertising campaign to begin in early March.

Strong performer

WheyHey’s strong performance in the Irish grocery market drives premium growth in the frozen protein ready meals category

At WheyHey, it doesn’t believe in compromising on taste, nutrition, or portion sizes. Its chef-crafted, high-protein meals, pizzas and ice cream provide proper portions, packed with high-quality protein ensuring a satisfying, nutritious meal.

Life moves fast, and cooking from scratch every night isn’t always realistic. By combining quality ingredients with real convenience, WheyHey helps people stay on track with their health goals without the stress of meal prep

The launch of Irish founded WheyHey’s frozen range in Ireland in 2024 has delivered impressive results for retailer partners – the brand won ‘emerging brand campaign of the year’ with Tesco in 2024

WheyHey’s premium positioning has contributed to a double digit % increase in customer spend within the frozen categoryshowcasing a clear shift towards higherquality options among Irish shoppers.

It has experienced a lot of success in attracting new shoppers to the categorywith total customer numbers rising +6% YoY.

WheyHey’s performance is the convenience segment has been notable, with WheyHey achieving +15% rise in spend per customer, leading to a remarkable +22% growth in RSV in Convenience stores.

‘Just Read the Label’ OOH Campaign >>

WheyHey High Protein Singapore Noodles

John West in-store sampling, Swords Pavilions Shopping Centre, Co. Dublin

Sports Nutrition: Protein & Energy CATEGORY FOCUS

>> Olympian David Gillick joins Lidl Ireland to launch expanded high-protein range Olympian

The WheyHey brand brings a loyal fanbase to stores, not just Harry Styles, Richard Branson or Harry Kane The brand noted that it is excited to continue delivering premium, nutritious options to Irish consumers and expanding its presence in the market in 2025.

More than just meals, WheyHey offers a full range of high-protein frozen options, including pizzas, wraps, and ice cream high-protein pancakes, as well as an ‘outrageous’ customer experience in store.

FemFuelz and Aldi Ireland confirm additional ¤1 million contract

Aldi announced today that it is extending its partnership with Limerick-based FemFuelz born out of the Grow with Aldi supplier development programme, unveiling a new milestone contract, valued at €1 million.

FemFuelz specialise in female-specific nutritional and protein supplements with each product formulated to meet the nutritional needs of the female body Its unique blends include Gut Balance, Super Greens, Preworkout, Whey Protein and Vegan Protein, all of which retail for €16.49 and come in exclusive flavours only stocked in Aldi. This investment by Aldi marks a significant milestone for the female-focused nutritional brand and reaffirms the company’s commitment to supporting Irish producers and product innovation. This contract will see

FemFuelz launch multiple Specialbuy drops in Aldi stores throughout 2025. The new contract will allow FemFuelz further develop new products and flavours while permitting team expansion, supporting the company’s growth ambitions.

FemFuelz, was founded by siblings Kylie and William O’Donoghue in 2018. The pair applied for the Grow with Aldi programme in 2023 and to date have secured contracts exceeding €1.6 million with Aldi. This new agreement from Aldi ensures their products will continue to be available in all 163 Aldi stores nationwide throughout the year providing unprecedented retail access for Irish customers and brand fans.

Speaking about the milestone contract, Kylie and William O’Donoghue of FemFuelz, said: “Our goal with FemFuelz is to empower women with nutritional products that support their overall health and wellness.”

Rachael O’Connor, buying director, Aldi Ireland, commented: “FemFuelz exemplifies the boldness and innovation we seek in our Grow with Aldi participants. This contract not only highlights Aldi’s commitment to supporting Irish businesses but demonstrates the opportunities the Grow with Aldi programme can provide.”

and Double European champion

David Gillick has teamed up with Lidl Ireland this new year to launch the retailer’s expanded high protein range, which includes 14 exciting new performance supplement products, now available across Lidl’s 181 stores nationwide

Since launching its first high protein range in 2021, Lidl Ireland has been committed to offering a variety of affordable, high-quality products to support healthy, active lifestyles.

The new products join an existing lineup, which includes popular protein-rich staples such as puddings, yogurts, cereals, bars and ready meals.

Now, Lidl is expanding its offering even further with the introduction of performancefocused supplements, such as whey and vegan protein powders, creatine monohydrate collagen powder, pre-workout drinks, and isotonic powders.

The retailer has also expanded its popular protein snack range, adding new high-protein bars, tortilla chips, and locally made highprotein cookies from Drogheda-based supplier East Coast Bakehouse

“As a former athlete who still runs three to four times a week, as well as being a busy dad

Fit

to my three children, I know how important it is to fuel your body with the right nutrition –whether that’s for training, recovery, or just to keep up with a hectic lifestyle,” said Olympian, David Gillick.

“That’s why it’s fantastic to see Lidl expanding its range of everyday protein products, making it easier for people to get the protein they need, and what’s even better, they’re available at an affordable price, which makes it accessible for so many more people.”

For Gillick, enjoying protein-rich food sources at mealtimes is key to keeping his energy levels up and supporting recovery

“Lidl’s new protein powders and snacks in particular, are a great option, especially on those busy days when I need something quick and easy, but still nutritious.”

Lidl Ireland’s new high protein range is now available across the retailer’s 181 stores nationwide

Foods expands with more delicious, nutritious,

and high-protein options for 2025

At Fit Foods, great taste, convenience, and nutrition go hand in hand—without ever compromising on quality Whether you’re cooking from scratch or looking for a quick meal solution, Fit Foods make it easier than ever to enjoy better food, every day.

Born from Dublin Meat Company in 2014, Fit Foods was built on taste, family, and better food choices. Recently expanded with a BRCAA state-of-the-art production facility in Monaghan, the company values remain unchanged: creating delicious, nutritious meals that fit into busy lifestyles.

As Ireland’s best-selling ready meal brand, Fit Foods continues to evolve with new options that combine flavour, health, and convenience. This January, saw the introduction of a new Bord Bia-certified cook-at-home Irish meat range

Now available in Dunnes Stores, the Bord Bia-certified Irish Beef and Chicken range is perfect for quick, high-quality home cooking. Whether grilled, baked, or stirfried, these premium meats bring freshness, taste, and protein to any dish.

Exciting

new ready meal solutions

Alongside the cook-at-home range, Fit Foods introduced three new ready meals, offering bold flavours and balanced nutrition:

• 400g Cheeseburger Fries:

A better-for-you take on a fast-food favourite.

• 400g Salt & Chilli Chicken:

A bold, high-protein option for spice lovers with a delicious curry dipping sauce on the side

• 500g Asian Beef Noodles:

The brands largest meal yet, perfect for extra-hungry days

Brian O Leary, CEO of DMC Foods, said: “At Fit Foods, we put taste first—followed by convenience and easy-to-understand health benefits. These latest innovations make better eating effortless, proving that high-protein, nutritious meals can be both exciting and accessible to our loyal customers and for the retailer, bring new customers to the category.” ■

Fit Foods Salt & Chilli Chicken

Fit Foods Asian Beef Noodles

Fit Foods Cheeseburger Fries

Olympian David Gillick fuels performance with Lidl Ireland’s new range of high protein products

FemFuelz and ALDI Ireland confirm additional ¤1 million contract

50 MARKET MOVERS

(L-R) KitKat Sharing Bars, Salted Caramel, KitKat Double Chocolate Hazelnut

KitKat releases new sharing bars with expanded flavours

KitKat has recently unveiled a brand-new product and it’s perfect for sharing.

Already renowned for helping people “Have a Break”, KitKat is now on a mission to help the nation ‘break better’.

The legendary crispy wafer that’s fueled break times for generations is encouraging everyone to stop overstretching and start taking quality breaks to gain a refreshed perspective, especially after a busy day.

These all-new sharing bars will make it easier to create those moments of connection, by sharing a delicious treat in the evening while relaxing with family and friends.

Now available nationwide, they come in three new flavours: KitKat Double Chocolate, KitKat Salted Caramel, KitKat Hazelnut: A hazelnutflavoured filling, covered with thick, milk & dark chocolate marbled swirls

Each sharing bar features multiple break-off pieces, making it ideal for enjoying together with friends and family

KitKat Sharing Bars are 99g and contain no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives. They are suitable for vegetarians.

Knorr Asia Noodle Curry and Chicken flavours

Fresh new strengths in your fruity favourites

Nordic Spirit strives to enrich the lives of consumers seeking a bold, innovative way to enjoy nicotine Inspired by consumer feedback and popular demand, the brand has introduced the nation’s favourite fruity flavours in even more strengths!

Consumers have shown so much love for the sweet and succulent Tropical Mix as a firm favourite. To give your consumers even more ways to enjoy this refreshing flavour it’s now available in both Regular and Strong. Whether you’re looking for a mellow start or a more intense experience, there’s now a Tropical Mix strength for both. Its juicy, fruity Raspberry flavour, already a fan favourite, is now available in Regular strength for those who prefer a smoother, more balanced release And for lovers of icy-cool flavours, the refreshing Frosty Berry has been taken up a notch with a Strong strength option, offering an extra invigorating nicotine delivery

With these new additions, our portfolio continues to grow, offering more ways for your consumers to find their perfect fit. Each pouch has been meticulously designed to provide a comfortable, smooth mouthfeel, an optimised flavour profile, and a faster nicotine release for a bold, refreshing experience that’s second to none

Nordic Spirit recommends starting with a lower strength, even if you’re already familiar with Nordic Spirit. With the addition of two new ‘Regular’ strength flavours to the portfolio, consumers can now enjoy even more options and find the balance that works best for them.

This latest expansion shapes our portfolio to fit consumer preferences, creating the ultimate nicotine experience. Whether your consumers are drawn to the tropical notes of Tropical Mix, the tangy burst of Raspberry, or the icy-cool freshness of Frosty Berry, there’s something in our new lineup for every palate

Exciting news for noodle lovers as Knorr introduces asian-inspired range

Knorr has announced the launch of its new Asia Noodle range, bringing the vibrant, flavours of Asia to Irish households.

Available in three delicious flavours - Chicken, Spicy Chicken, and Curry As Asian cuisine takes Ireland by storm, with vibrant restaurants appearing everywhere, Knorr’s Asia Noodles are here to deliver the bold, irresistible flavours inspired by Asian cuisine, straight to your kitchen— conveniently and deliciously

All it takes is boiling water - no stove required. Simply add the noodles and seasoning to a bowl, pour in boiling water, cover, and let them sit for three minutes for a mouthwatering meal. Say goodbye to long prep times!

Whether you’re in need of a quick and easy lunch, a light dinner, or a versatile base for a homemade Ramen dish, Knorr Asia Noodles offer endless possibilities. Pair them with your favourite protein, vegetables, or a boiled egg for a meal that’s as convenient as it is delicious.

Knorr’s Asia Noodles are made with wheat noodles cooked in sunflower oil, delivering exceptional flavour Each bowl offers the perfect balance of taste and nutrition without compromising on quality

The Knorr Asia Noodle range is available from retailers nationwide RRP €1.25.

Yoplait reveals healthier Petits Filous and Frubes recipes

Yoplait the yogurt expert, has kicked off the New Year with two new reformulated recipes on its leading kid’s brands, Petits Filous and Frubes, to ensure that its products are even healthier, yet still retain the same delicious taste

Since 2015, Yoplait has improved the health credentials of its kids’ portfolio globally by reducing sugars by 25%.

“Petits Filous and Frubes are well-established and much-loved brands for many families in Ireland. These same families have come to expect our unmatched product quality and premium taste which is an integral guarantee for all Yoplait brands,” said Deirdre Lowry brand manager Yoplait Ireland.

Lowry noted that it is important to Yoplait to guarantee healthier products on an ongoing basis and in this instance, we have managed to reduce sugar without resorting to adding thickeners, sweeteners, processed fibres or flavours.

Yoplait’s ongoing mission is to educate consumers about the nutritional value of fortified kids’ yogurts and attract ‘lost consumers’ back into the category

These same insights showed that some parents were switching from kids’ yogurts into biscuits, cakes and confectionery – all of which are low in essential nutrients.

Yoplait will continue with its education and awareness campaign into 2025, and its kids’ brands will continue to drive relevance and excitement with consumers.

This month, Petits Filous will roll out a fresh new-look which emphasises the health credentials of the brand with a focus on bone health and Frubes is running an on-pack promotion offering a once in a lifetime family trip to Japan, a first for the kids’ yogurt category ■

Nordic Spirit Knorr

Yoplait

Yoplait Petits Filous Strawberry

Nordic Spirit range

Irish Distillers partners with Bank of Ireland to offer loans to tillage farmers

Irish Distillers has announced a new partnership with Bank of Ireland to offer Enviroflex sustainability-linked loans, that provide discounted flexible finance, to tillage farmers for the very first time

Enviroflex loans are designed to incentivise farmers to continue implementing sustainability focused improvements on their land, with Bank of Ireland having already developed a wide range of successful Enviroflex partnerships across the dairy sector throughout 2024

Irish Distillers is now the first to partner with Bank of Ireland to support the roll-out of Enviroflex loans to the tillage sector with sustainability-linked financing now available to participants of Irish Distillers’ Sustainable Green Spring Barley Scheme

The Sustainable Green Spring Barley Scheme, launched in 2020, is a tailored sustainability programme for barley growers to support the long-term viability of the spring barley sector in Ireland by incentivising and rewarding growers for delivering environmental and biodiversity initiatives on their farms.

Graham Caulwell, head of sustainability and compliance, Irish Distillers, said: “Irish Distillers has a proud history of buying quality grain from Irish farmers to produce our whiskeys.

“We are committed to working in partnership with our growers to respond to the challenges of climate change and to promote sustainable agriculture through initiatives such as our Sustainable Green Spring Barley Scheme.”

The programme is founded on three major commitments:

1. Enhancing biodiversity on Irish tillage farms.

2. Improving the sustainability of the spring barley sector

3. Supporting farmers in reducing their carbon footprint

Lidl wins court battle to open first in-store pub in NI

Lidl has recently been cleared to proceed with plans for its first-ever in-store pub in Northern Ireland after a legal challenge was dismissed by the High Court, the BBC reports.

The supermarket chain secured approval for a bar inside its Dundonald store following an appeal from trader Philip Russell Ltd, which argued Lidl had failed to prove a lack of licensed premises in the area.

However Mr Justice Colton ruled that the novelty of the application was not grounds for refusal.

According to the BBC, Lidl originally obtained planning permission in 2020 for a tap room at the site, agreeing to pay £410,000 (€167,000) and take over a surrendered local bar licence.

Under Northern Ireland’s strict licensing laws, new alcohol sale licences can only be issued if an existing one is given up

Philip Russell Ltd, which operates off-licences across the region, claimed Lidl’s proposal was an attempt to circumvent the law.

However, Mr Justice Colton found that Lidl had met the legal requirements, noting that the store would be in a growing retail and transport hub where two pubs had previously operated.

According to the BBC, the judge accepted Lidl’s argument that it was making a genuine investment, adding: “I am satisfied that it meets the statutory requirements and there is no good reason for refusing the application.”

To qualify for an additional financial premium as part of this scheme, barley growers are required to implement eight essential measures and must also choose an additional three to four measures which specifically have a direct and positive impact on biodiversity

Eoin Lowry, head of agri sector, Bank of Ireland, said: “A vast number of dairy farmers looking to enhance their farms sustainability have already availed of Enviroflex loans.

“We now look forward to working with Irish Distillers to reward tillage farmers who implement more sustainable farming practises with discounted finance options.”

Carlsberg Group completes acquisition of Britvic Ireland

Carlsberg Group has recently announced the completion of its acquisition of Irish soft drinks maker, Britvic Ireland following its purchase of parent company Britvic PLC.

Britvic Ireland will continue to produce and sell its portfolio of soft drinks, including, Ballygowan MiWadi, Club Cidona and TK, while Diageo will continue to sell Carlsberg alcoholic brands in Ireland.

In statement, Søren Brinck, Carlsberg Group EVP, Western Europe, said that the move marks a pivotal milestone in the history of the Carlsberg Group as it welcomes the acquisition of Britvic Ireland.

“Carlsberg Group has extensive and successful experience with soft drinks in various markets, and Britvic Ireland has an exciting portfolio of brands and products that are beloved in the Irish market,” he added.

“With the acquisition, Carlsberg also further strengthens its existing relationship with PepsiCo and will now become their largest bottling partner in Europe.”

Britvic Ireland has been manufacturing soft drinks at Kylemore Road in Ballyfermot for the past 50 years and has been bottling Ballygowan at Newcastle West in Limerick for 35 years.

The company remains the only large-scale soft drinks manufacturer in the Republic of Ireland, employing over 400 people

This deal establishes Britvic Ireland as the only standalone soft drink company in Carlsberg’s Western Europe operations.

The Danish brewer will retain Britvic Ireland as a standalone soft drinks business, with Kevin Donnelly managing director Britvic Ireland remaining at the helm and no roles impacted in the company’s Irish operations.

Donnelly noted: “At Britvic Ireland we are very grateful for 16 wonderful years as part of Britvic PLC.

“We are excited to join the Carlsberg Group, a larger and more global business.

“We look forward to accessing increased investment and capability to continue our growth journey and are confident that this acquisition will bring about exciting opportunities for the development of our brands, teams and operations.” ■

Diageo will continue to sell Carlsberg alcoholic brands in Ireland

(L-R) Eoin Lowry, head of agri sector, Bank of Ireland, Ciara Egan, sustainability and responsibility specialist, Irish Distillers, Susan Maher, agri development manager, Bank of Ireland and Graham Caulwell, head of sustainability and compliance at Irish Distillers. Pic: Cathal Noonan

Winners of NOffLA Off-Licence of the Year Awards 2025 announced

Congratulations to all of this year’s winners, including McHughs, Malahide Road, which has been named NOffLA National Off-Licence of the Year 2025

The National Off-Licence Association (NOffLA) has revealed the winners of its annual Off-Licence of the Year Awards 2025, which are now in their 29th year The awards were presented at the Honourable Society of King’s Inns on Monday, 27 January

The awards recognise and showcase the excellence of independent off-licences and highlight those retailers that offer exceptional service to customers and demonstrate excellence in retail standards.

The awards would not have been possible without the commitment of NOffLA’s sponsors. NOffLA is particularly grateful to 19 Crimes, El Coto de Rioja, Redbreast, Guinness, Dona Paula, Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin, Alpha Zeta and Hennessy

Cathal McHugh, chairman, NOffLA, said:

“The participants represent local businesses, local retailers - often family run, who employ and source locally, and are the essence of

Excellence awards

1. 64 Wine

2. Blackrock Cellar

3. Carry Out Tramore

4. Dicey’s Off-Licence

5. Fine Wines Dooradoyle

6. Fine Wines Kilmurray

7. Fine Wines Party Store

8. Fine Wines Roslevan Centre

9. Fine Wines Tralee

10 Fine Wines Westside

11. Galvins Carry Out Carrigaline

12. Gibneys Off-Licence

13. Jus De Vine

14. Kellers Carry Out Nenagh

15. Martins Off-Licence

16. McHughs Kilbarrack Road

17 McHughs Malahide Road

18. Mitchell & Son Wine Merchants, Glasthule

19 Mitchell and Son CHQ

20 Molloys Liquor Store Clondalkin

All the winners celebrating their results at the Honourable Society of King’s Inns community businesses. This combined focus on specialised offerings, product knowledge and expertise, top-class customer service, drives excellence among all entrants.”

Reggie, operations manager, NOffLA, said:

“These celebrations are a well-earned tribute to all our members who have demonstrated their commitment to adopting ‘best practice’

21. Molloys Liquor Store Leopardstown

22. Molloys Liquor Store Clonsilla

23. Molloys Liquor Store Tallaght

24 Molloys Liquor Store The Liberties

25. Number 21 Dungarvan

26. Number 21 Main Street Midleton

27 Number 21 The Forum

28. O’Donovans Off-Licence Bandon

29 O’Donovans Off-Licence Riversdale Midleton

30 O’Donovans Off-Licence Summerhill North

31. Redmonds of Ranelagh

32. The Vintry

Merit awards

1. Carry Out Ballinasloe

2. Daly’s Drinks Ltd

3. Fine Wines Blackpool

4. Fine Wines Castletroy

5. Fine Wines Corbally Centre

6. Fine Wines Malahide

7. Fine Wines Mill Road

as their motto, by putting their names forward for this important awards competition.

“The very fact of entering this competition is proof of the aspirations of our members each year to invite critical assessment of their performance and to put their expertise to the test.”

8. Fine Wines Parnell Street

9. Fine Wines Raven Terrace

10 Fine Wines Rialto

11. Fine Wines Roches Street

12. Fine Wines Roxboro

13. Fine Wines Thomondgate

14. Fine Wines Washington Street

15. Londis Malahide

16. Molloys Liquor Store Ballyfermot

17 Molloys Liquor Store Finglas

18. Number 21 Ballincollig

19 Number 21 Cashel

20 Number 21 Limerick

21. O’Donovans Off-Licence Blackpool

22. O’Donovans Off-Licence Carrigaline

23. O’Donovans Off-Licence Mayfield

24 O’Donovans Off-Licence Oliver Plunkett St

25. O’Donovans Off-Licence Passage West

26. The Coach House Off-Licence

27 The Wine Centre Kilkenny

1. The NOffLA RTC Online Trainees of the Year 2025 PPresented by Cathal McHugh to John Keyes, Fine Wines, David Lonergan, The Vintry and Louis Doyle, Fine Wines Malahide

2. The NOffLA Responsible Retailer of the Year 2025 Kellers Carry Out, Nenagh & Roscrea, Co Tipperary: Presented by Cathal McHugh to Josephine Keller

3. The 19 Crimes Best First Time Entrant 2025 Fine Wines Kilmurray, Co Limerick: Presented by Richard Moriarty (Findlater & Co) to Chris Moorish.

4. The NOffLA Food Retailer of the Year 2025 Blackrock Cellar, Co Dublin: Presented by Cathal McHugh to Josh Fitzpatrick & Joel Durand.

5. The El Coto Customer Service Award of the Year 2025 Molloys Liquor Store, The Liberties: Presented by Christine Smith (Mackenway Distributors) to Paddy Burke and team.

6. The Redbreast Spirit Specialist of the Year 2025 Mitchell & Son Wine & Spirit Merchants, Glasthule: Presented by Mark Boyle (Irish Distillers Pernod Ricard) to Kamil Lewandowski & Alex O’Farrell.

7. The Guinness Beer Specialist of the Year 2025 McHughs, Kilbarrack Road: Presented by Niamh Everard (Diageo Ireland) to James Carroll & Caolann Haughton.

8. The Dona Paula Wine Specialist of the Year 2025 Jus de Vine, Portmarnock: Presented by Trisha Feely to Julie Cullen.

9. The Hennessy Cognac Munster OffLicence of the Year 2025 O’Donovan’s Off-Licence, Riversdale, Midleton: Presented by Mary Keyes (Edward Dillon & Co.) to Michael Collins.

10 The Drumshanbo Gun Powder Irish Gin Connacht/Ulster Off-Licence of the Year 2025 Dicey’s Off-Licence, Ballyshannon: Presented by Gary Cahill (The Shed Distillery & Dalcassian Wines & Spirits) to Brendan O’Reilly

11. The NOffLA Leinster Off-Licence of the Year 2025 The Wine Centre Kilkenny: Presented by Cathal McHugh to Darren Meehan.

12. The Alpha Zeta Dublin Off-Licence of the Year 2025 Molloys Liquor Store Clonsilla: Presented by Shane Boyce (Liberty Wines) to Richard Molloy and team.

13. The NOffLA National Off-Licence of the Year 2025 Frank Haughton, Cathal McHugh, Aidan O’Neill.

www.noffla.ie

Policy updates

At this year’s ceremony, chairman Cathal McHugh also took the opportunity to update attendees on recent policy developments and NOffLA’s work in these areas

Health labelling regulations

Firstly, the new health labelling regulations on alcohol are set to come into force on 22 May 2026.

NOffLA remains deeply concerned about the potential impact these regulations will have on the wider drinks sector

“We are calling on the newly formed Government to grant an extension to this implementation date This would allow time to clarify the scope of the regulations and facilitate a harmonised EU approach to alcohol labelling, as previously committed to by the European Commission,” McHugh told attendees.

NOffLA is committed to working with the wider industry to address this issue, closely monitor developments at both the EU and WTO levels, and keep its members fully informed.

Sale of Alcohol Bill

Meanwhile, NOffLA anticipates that the new Government will introduce the long-awaited Sale of Alcohol Bill.This legislation is expected to be split into two separate Bills aimed at modernising Ireland’s alcohol licensing laws

The first of these the Intoxicating Liquor Bill, is expected to include provisions such as:

• Aligning Sunday opening hours

• Introducing an annual late permit for pubs and nightclubs, and

• Implementing measures to improve public safety

• 'More importantly a second Bill, to be introduced at a later stage, is expected to streamline and consolidate existing liquor licensing laws, including the regulation of distance and online sales.

NOffLA will continue to engage with the Department as these Bills progress through the Oireachtas, ensuring its members' interests are represented and that they remain updated at every stage

Taxation and alcohol excise

“On taxation and alcohol excise, you will recall that excise duties were unchanged in last year’s Budget and we welcomed the decision to avoid further increases.

“Rising costs are affecting small businesses across the country, and our sector faces the additional burden of an excise regime that remains the second highest in Europe,” noted McHugh.

McHugh stated that this is particularly “unjustifiable” given that Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) has been in place for several years, effectively preventing retailing at dangerously low

prices. Irish excise rates can no longer be defended on public health grounds.

On the topic of MUP, NOffLA also remains a strong advocate for an all-island approach to MUP With the restoration of Stormont there has been renewed momentum on this issue in Northern Ireland.

Deposit Return Scheme

Regarding the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), NOffLA has been actively engaging with Re-Turn. As the scheme transitions into its next phase there will likely be a greater focus on expanding reverse vending machines to community locations such as charity shops, civic sites, and sporting grounds.

NOffLA is committed to ensuring that measures under this scheme do not disproportionately impact small retailers, and will continue to challenge any issues that arise

Diet Coke’s ‘This Is My Taste’ campaign

Top influencers gathered at Northern Ireland’s Slieve Donard Hotel on 30 January to celebrate Diet Coke’s This Is My Taste campaign. Inspired by ambassador Jamie Dornan’s favorite pastimes, guests took a refreshing sea swim, perfected their putting skills, and explored tufting artistry

Borsa Vini Italiani 2025

Additionally this month, Dublin’s Alex Hotel hosted the 2025 Borsa Vini Italiani on 23 January, where 33 wineries from across Italy showcased their finest wines. A strong trade presence, including key buyers from Ireland’s on- and off-trade sectors, reflected the industry’s passion for Italian wine ■

Sam Kelly

Jonathan Tonge, JN Wine

Giuseppe Crupi

Italian representatives

Albert Baginski, Solera Wine

Tolu Makay

Mark Rogers Emma Kehoe Grainne Daly and Aoibh Carroll

Keith Nelson appointed chair of Irish Beverage Council

The Irish Beverage Council (IBC), the Ibec group that represents the non-alcohol beverage industry, has recently announced the appointment of Keith Nelson country manager, Innocent Ireland, as chair of the IBC.

In his new role, Nelson succeeds Agnese Filippi, country manager of Coca Cola Ireland, who has served as IBC chair since January 2023.

As IBC chair, Nelson will be a key influence in the strategic direction of the IBC, representing an industry at the heart of Ireland’s economy.

The non-alcohol beverage industry in Ireland employs more than 3,500 people directly and supports an additional 3,000 jobs

indirectly

Nelson has been the country manager of innocent Ireland since 2020

“The next two years promises to be an exciting period as the beverage sector continues to play an important role in the Irish economy and lead in sustainability,” said Nelson.

Nelson noted he is looking forward to working with the Council to help deliver a stable platform for the industry’s future growth, as well as engaging with IBC’s key stakeholders, including the new Government, on its behalf

“Stepping down, I am immensely proud of the sector’s achievements over the past two years,” highlighted Agnese Filippi,

outgoing chair, IBC.

These include the successful rollout of Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), and the launch of many innovative products that meet the Irish consumer’s need for a wider and balanced choice of drinks.

According to Agnese, the beverage sector will continue to be a sustainability leader and vital to Ireland’s economy and society, employing thousands, contributing to community initiatives, and providing significant economic output.

“The IBC has been a leader in several important initiatives for our sector, including Ireland’s DRS, tethered caps, the evaluation of the Sugar

ECR Ireland recently announced the appointment of Paul Kelly, business unit & customer strategy planning director, Unilever as its new supplier co-chair

He will succeed Helen Kenny, CEO, Vista Foods, in his new role

Kelly will join Edel Russell, Musgrave Group who together will co-chair the ECR Ireland team.

ECR Ireland noted that both are ‘keen to continue broadening the group’s membership base.’

Together Kelly and Russell will’ develop relevant output and peer-to-peer forums for retailers, suppliers and service providers in category management, shopper insights, shopper marketing, sustainability, supply chain, inclusion & diversity and digital

path to purchase.’

Speaking on his appointment, Kelly said: “On behalf Unilever, I am delighted to have this opportunity of working with ECR Ireland in an industry leadership role to always seek better ways of working together and serving consumer needs.

“Many of the ECR ideals are extremely relevant within Unilever, especially sustainability, shopper marketing and transformative technology and I hope we can further develop these workstreams during my tenure as co-chair.”

Warm welcome

Declan Carolan, managing director, ECR Community and general manager ECR Ireland, added: “I am delighted that Paul

will become the ECR Ireland supplier co-chair

“Unilever have been an ever present on the Steering Group of ECR Ireland since its inception and have always been strong advocates of promoting better collaboration in Ireland & throughout the world”.

“I wish to offer thanks to Helen Kenny for her leadership role as co-chair of ECR Ireland for the last three years. Helen’s tenure oversaw a period of growth for ECR Ireland with 75 companies now members”.

The next major ECR Ireland event will be the ECR Leaders Forum on 1 May, O’Reilly Hall, UCD when CEO interviews and the industry hot topics will take

centre stage

ECR Ireland is a not-for-profit industry group which promotes better working together between trading partners to fulfil consumer wishes better, faster, at less cost and in a more sustainable way

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) recently announced that Greg Dempsey has been appointed chief executive.

Dempsey is currently deputy secretary general at the Department of Health and will take up office following the conclusion of tenure of the current chief executive, Dr Pamela Byrne, on 1 March 2025.

A native of Dublin, Dempsey is a graduate of Trinity College Dublin, holding a BSc in Financial Information Systems and is qualified as a Chartered Certified Accountant. He is a member of the Board of the Institute of Public Administration, and a member of the State Claims Agency Advisory Committee

Dempsey has worked in the Department of Health for over a decade, where he was previously assistant secretary and head of finance, before becoming deputy secretary where he heads the Corporate Affairs Division overseeing the highest standards of corporate governance in the Department. Prior to that, he was chief finance & operations officer with the Department of Finance, having joined there from in the Central Bank. Before he joined the public sector, Dempsey had a distinguished career in the private sector, where he worked in a number of Financial Services firms, including as CEO of Zurich Bank.

Commenting on the

announcement, Ann Horan, chair, FSAI stated that Dempsey brings a wide breath of expertise and leadership to the role of chief executive that will be invaluable in steering the FSAI to maintain its primary role in protecting consumers’ health and interests in relation to food safety

“The Board is delighted to welcome Dempsey as the new chief executive of the FSAI. Dempsey’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the FSAI, as we roll out our new Strategy 2025-2029, which sets out an ambitious roadmap to continue safeguard consumer health and enhance trust in Ireland’s robust food safety system. With his exceptional leadership skills, and

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland appoints Greg Dempsey as new chief executive

Sweetened Drinks Tax, and maximising relationships with our national and international partners and stakeholders,” added Robert Kiernan, director, IBC.

a clear vision for the future, we are confident that he will safeguard and further drive the FSAI’s exemplary track record in delivering its legal mandate,” said Horan. ■

Keith Nelson, chair, Irish Beverage Council

Paul Kelly, Unilever, appointed co-chair of ECR Ireland

Paul Kelly, business unit & customer strategy planning director, Unilever/ co-chair, ECR Ireland

Greg Dempsey, new chief executive, FSAI

QUICK QUESTIONS WITH

SUZANNE O’CONNOR, account director, The Hive Agency.

The Hive Agency is a well-established, strategic public relations agency based in Dublin and is a trusted communications partner of pioneering multinationals such as Tesco Ireland, semi-states like Dublin Bus, global luxury brands including Moët Hennessy and Peroni Nastro Azzurro, and Ireland’s top creative events such as St. Patrick’s Festival and Culture Night

1. Best series you recently watched on a streaming platform?

‘Shrinking’ on Apple TV – a really funny, feel-good series, with a few tears along the way.

I’d highly recommend giving it a watch.

2. Best place for coffee?

Butcher Boy or Goat in the Boat, both in Skerries.

3. Top movie recommendation?

A recent one I watched and really enjoyed was Fly Me to the Moon.

4. Top book recommendation?

The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell – it was so good I went straight onto the follow up book, The Family Remains.

5. Which social media platform do you use most?

TikTok – I’m very guilty of doom scrolling.

6. Favourite influencer/content creator if you have one?

I love watching Garron Noone and Emma Doran for a good laugh.

7. Best advert on TV?

I always like the Barry’s Tea ads, and their ‘You’re Home’ ad campaign last year was great.

8. Worst advert on TV?

I’ve heard “Domin-oh-hoo-hoo” too many times now – but great tagline all the same if it’s stuck in my head!

9. Favourite grocery shop?

Tesco, gotta get those Clubcard points!

10. If you had to live in another country, where would you choose?

I’ve lived in America and Canada, both of which I loved – but nowhere beats home.

11. Greatest achievement to date?

Buying my first home with my husband – that was a big life milestone that I’m very grateful for.

12. Do you prefer working from home or in the office/on-site?

I like to do a mix - I look forward to going to the office every week to catch up with the team but also love the comforts of working from home.

13. Best piece of advice you ever received?

Control the controllables and let go of the rest.

14. Biggest fear?

Losing loved ones.

15. City or beach break?

I love a good city break (Lisbon has been one of my favourites) but if I had to choose, I would go on a beach holiday to completely relax and chill out in the sun.

16. Top restaurant recommendation?

Grano in Stoneybatter – the best and cosiest Italian restaurant in Ireland in my opinion. It books up far in advance, but you must get the ‘Scaldanduja’ (spicy spreadable chorizo with toasted crostini) if you’re lucky enough to nab a table.

17. Who is the last artist/group you saw live?

U2 in The Sphere in Las Vegas – I went with my dad last year who is a huge fan, and it was an experience of a lifetime!

18. Apart from your own, what brand do you admire most?

The Smooth Company – their products are amazing, and I really admire how they have grown their Irish, female-owned business so fast and successfully. I love their content on TikTok, and the videos they make with their Grandad Billy always put a smile on my face!

19. Best customer service you ever received?

Sculpted by Aimee – I was in the store on Grafton Street recently and the staff there were so helpful and friendly.

20. What’s the last compliment you received?

“It sounds like you’d do anything for your family and friends.” ■

Suzanne O’Connor, account director, The Hive Agency